Democratic lawmakers are pushing Trump administration to rethink recent move on USMCA renewal,warning of potential fallout for agriculture and local economies. On Wednesday,U.S. Trade Representative's office said it wouldn't renew deal "in its current form," while stressing talks with Mexico,Canada on trade deficits and other issues.
Some Democrats in Congress fear this could worsen economic uncertainty. But others back administration's strategy to enforce compliance from Mexico,Canada with USMCA commitments . Many lawmakers want U.S. to negotiate changes during review.
Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA),ranking member of House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee,is proactive. He sent letter to USTR Jamieson Greer,urging USMCA renewal and listing eight enhancement areas. Larsen pointed to uncertainties over USMCA renewal and tariffs,which he says hurt businesses and consumers in his district .
Manufacturers in Washington's 2nd District report investor hesitance on expansions due to climate of uncertainty . Some moved operations to Canada,spurred by U.S . tariffs raising costs,cutting competitiveness. Larsen warns annual reviews could trap businesses in uncertainty.
In his letter, Larsen blasted administration's rhetoric towards Canada,claiming it caused "real economic damage" in his district,where cross-border ties matter. He urged USTR for constructive tone to rebuild U.S.-Canada trust.
Greer defended decision on Fox News,noting bipartisan support for updating trade deal. He mentioned lawmakers on both sides see need for improvements,including labor standards in Mexico and dairy access in Canada.
20 House Agriculture Committee Democrats voiced strong opposition to administration's stance . In July 1 letter,they warned decision risks "the last " Led by Angie Craig (D-MN),letter stresses dire economic plight of U.S. farmers,facing worst crisis since 1980s.
Committee members noted Mexico,Canada as reliable markets,boosting U.S . agricultural imports by $20 billion since USMCA began. They argue exports to these countries added $149 billion to U.S. economy in 2024,supporting nearly half a million jobs.
Democrats also slammed administration for lack of communication on USMCA review. They voiced frustration over unanswered inquiries,emphasizing Congress's constitutional role in foreign commerce regulation.
Some House Ways and Means Committee members call for change in administration's USMCA renewal approach. Rep. Suzan DelBene (D-WA) called decision effectively a withdrawal,warning it could harm economy,threaten jobs.
Though Trump suggested possible USMCA withdrawal,USTR's no-renewal decision isn't formal withdrawal. Deal stays for decade as negotiations continue over future.
USTR said USMCA "remains in force pending resolution of" trade deficit issues and other concerns. Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA) called USTR's decision a "grave mistake," urging administration to strengthen agreement,not retreat .
Meanwhile,Ways and Means Committee ranking member Richard Neal (D-MA) called for focus on negotiating deal changes. He emphasized ensuring updates benefit American workers,manufacturers,reflecting bipartisan support that launched USMCA in 2020…
