Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson has accused her Republican rival, Congressman John James, of jeopardizing Michigan workers and consumers due to his past support for President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canadian products.
In a virtual press conference held Monday, Benson, who is also the Michigan secretary of state, appeared with former Michigan Governor James Blanchard and UAW Region 1 Director La Shawn English. They expressed concerns that Michigan’s strong economic connections with Canada leave the state particularly exposed in the ongoing trade dispute.
“Because of his silence, he owns this,” Benson stated regarding James. “He owns these reckless tariffs. He owns this tax on Michigan.”
Benson referred to the tariffs as the “John James tax,” claiming they could drive up prices for groceries, gas, and other essentials while putting jobs in Michigan at risk.
Canada stands as Michigan’s largest export market. In 2025 alone, the state exported around $23.2 billion worth of goods to Canada, which accounted for 39% of all goods exported from Michigan according to the U. S. Trade Representative.
The Trump administration has intensified its trade conflict with Canada by imposing a new 50% tariff on about $20 billion worth of Canadian imports. In response, Canada has announced retaliatory tariffs set to begin on September 8.
This situation is crucial for Michigan’s auto industry because of how supply chains operate across the U. S.-Canada border.
English mentioned she supports tariffs aimed at companies that relocate jobs overseas or pay low wages.
However, she emphasized that this situation is different.
<p“But that’s not what we’re seeing here. What we’re seeing is reckless,” English commented. “A 50% tariff would only hurt the very domestic auto workers we should be fighting to protect."
Benson also highlighted how tariffs can affect construction and housing expenses.
She noted developers in Grand Rapids previously informed her that tariffs had more than doubled costs for certain building materials.
James has backed Trump’s tariff policies in Congress before, including voting against a resolution in February intended to lift tariffs placed on Canadian imports.
A spokesperson from James’ campaign responded by saying, “John James is a combat veteran and auto supplier who actually creates jobs.”
Benson stated that if elected governor, she would aim to collaborate directly with Canadian officials and other governors to shield Michigan businesses from unfavorable federal trade policies.
“I will negotiate subnational agreements to ensure that Michigan’s interests are protected and met,” Benson said.
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