Trump Defends Economic Policies Amid Tariff Tensions with Canada
President Donald Trump is set to defend his economic policies in Michigan, where new Canadian tariffs may have a significant impact. The president will visit a General Motors facility in Milford, which is a testing and proving grounds for its vehicles, on Monday. He'll also view a drag race demonstration ahead of an IndyCar race in Washington next month.
The trip comes as early voting is underway for Michigan's Aug. 4 primary, which features fierce nomination fights in both major political parties. Trump-backed Rep. John James is running against Perry Johnson, a businessman turned politician who has launched unsuccessful campaigns before, including for president in 2024.
Michigan was one of the battlegrounds Trump flipped after it backed Democrat Joe Biden in 2020. However, the state has seen parts of its economy affected by the president's tariffs, including on imported cars and auto parts. A new round of steep import levies is taking effect on dozens of U.S. trading partners.
The US and Canada have squabbled over a new border bridge, with Trump launching a first round of tariffs last year after alleging Canada should do more to stop fentanyl smuggling. The president's latest visit coincides with tensions between his administration and Canada that have marred the opening of a new $4.7 billion Gordie Howe International Bridge.