Trump lifts tariffs on select Canadian goods ahead of midterms

President Donald Trump announced the easing of tariffs on several Canadian products, with the changes set to take effect on October 30, just weeks before the November 3 midterm elections. The White House said the move will drop duties on items such as plywood sheets, packing crates, some machinery and certain paper products, aiming to ease the cost burden on U.S. commerce and the public interest. At the same time, the administration will keep or add tariffs on other goods, including carpets, specific valves and waste products, and it recently imposed a flat ban on about $1 billion of Canadian imports such as alcoholic beverages, dairy and motorcycles. The relief is tied to Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, who faces a tight race against Democrat Troy Jackson. Collins told the press she had spoken with Trump’s trade negotiator Jamieson Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick about the toll tariffs take on Maine farmers, growers and businesses, and she urged further relief and a broader trade deal with Canada. The President originally launched the trade dispute over claims that Canada discriminates against U.S. dairy, auto and alcohol producers, prompting Canada to retaliate with matching 15‑50 % duties. An AP‑NORC poll of 2,140 adults conducted Sept. 24‑28 found 65 % blame Trump’s policies for high prices as election season heats up. Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden called the move a “desperate, 11th‑hour attempt” to help Collins. ## Context