Explainer
Why did the US lift tariffs on some Canadian goods just before the vote?
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Senator Susan Collins says 9 categories of Canadian products are coming out of the 50% tariffs, from blueberries to potatoes and apples.
9
Collins framed it as relief for growers. These producers are a vital part of our state's economy and support our rural and coastal communities.
“These producers are a vital part of our state's economy and support our rural and coastal communities.”
The Wall Street Journal reported, citing insiders, that the aim was to help northern-state Republicans such as Collins in Maine before the midterms. The White House in Washington called that speculation, saying the removed duties would be replaced by duties on valves, carpets and waste products.
Washington and Augusta
Talks stalled in August, and 50% tariffs followed at the end of that month. Collins announced the relief on 23 October, and voters decide on 3 November.
- August 2026Talks stall; 50% tariffs follow
- 23 OctoberCollins announces relief
- 3 NovemberComing upMidterm vote
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The story
Trump exempts some Canadian goods from 50% tariffs in a boost for Susan CollinsRead the article
Based on reports by
- newsORF.atBefore midterms: Trump lifts some tariffs against Canada
- Il Sole 24 OREUSA revoke tariffs on some Canadian products after pressure from Senator Susan Collins
- HandelsblattTariff dispute: Trump lifts tariffs on certain Canadian goods
- Notícias ao MinutoTariffs on Canada reduced to help Republican candidate from Maine
- RTE.ieMaine race close as Trump ends some Canadian tariffs
- Ziare.comUnited States exempts certain Canadian products from 50% tariffs, in an attempt to help Republican candidates in the northern US in the midterm elections