On eve of tariff announcement, Grassley continues “wait and see” approach

WASHINGTON — As President Trump prepares for what he’s calling “Liberation Day” with promises to roll out a set of tariffs on imports from other countries, Iowa’s senior US senator says he’s still taking a “wait and see” approach to the situation.

During a conference call with ag reporters earlier today, Chuck Grassley says he remains optimistic that Trump’s actions will work out for the positive of American trade. “As I’ve said, and you’ve heard me say it, we’ll wait and see how these tariff negotiations play out. You’ve heard me say several times about being a free and fair trader. If President Trump is successful in reducing tariffs by putting our tariffs on and forcing negotiations and getting tariffs down overall, I’m going to say amen. If he’s unsuccessful, I’ll say I told you so.”

Grassley says Congress has the authority to regulate interstate and foreign commerce.   “No matter who is president, Congress has the constitutional role through the commerce clause on trade matters and we should reassume that role again through Congress instead of through the president, but I’m not holding my breath when we’ll get that job done. In the meantime, I hope the current administration continues to be responsive to Congress on trade actions.”

Since taking office months ago, Trump has proven to be aggressive with tariff threats, all while creating a sense of whiplash through on-again, off-again trade actions, and it’s possible we could see more delays or confusion this week.