STATEMENT: Jocelyn Benson Calls On John James and Donald Trump to Halt Tariffs

This week, as the U.S. House of Representatives meets in D.C. for the final time ahead of the November election after D.C. Republicans cut their own schedule short, Secretary of State and Democratic Nominee for Governor Jocelyn Benson released the following statement:

“Michiganders are paying more than anyone else because of Donald Trump and John James’ reckless tariffs, gas is above $4 a gallon because of the Iran War that James voted for, and grocery prices continue to rise. Congressman James is supposed to be in D.C. this week amid this affordability crisis, and he should use his last few days on the House floor to do his job.

“I’m calling on the Congressman to stand up to Donald Trump and end this reckless trade war with Michigan’s largest economic partner. James and Congressional Republican leadership should keep the House in session as long as it takes to pass legislation repealing Trump’s 50% tariffs on Canada. Cutting their session short and leaving town early isn’t leadership, and it sure won’t lower any gas prices or grocery bills.

“On day one as governor, I will work to drive down costs in spite of the federal government. I will negotiate subnational agreements that cut prices, even when the federal government won't, and I will ensure trade between Michigan and Canada gets around these tariffs.

“But James doesn’t have to wait for me to become governor. He can act now. He can choose Trump or Michigan this week, and I’m urging him to choose Michigan.”

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