United Steelworkers National Director Marty Warren condemns President Trump's tariffs threat on Canadian exports and jobs

Trade Tariffs Impact - President Trump's threat to impose 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico effective February 1 will have devastating consequences for workers, industries, and communities across Canada and the United States [1] - The tariffs are based on exaggerated and false allegations of U S subsidies to the Canadian economy [2] - The tariffs will hurt key sectors such as steel, aluminum, forestry, mining, auto, and broader manufacturing and processing sectors, which are the backbone of the economy [3] Economic and Employment Consequences - Tariffs will create instability, disrupt supply chains, increase costs, and put thousands of jobs at risk [5] - Rising costs and job insecurity will undermine the standard of living of workers on both sides of the border [5] - The tariffs will impact American manufacturers, workers, and families who depend on the seamless flow of goods and materials between the countries [4] Union Response and Recommendations - The United Steelworkers union (USW) represents 850,000 workers in Canada and the United States and understands the shared struggles of workers across borders [4] - The USW calls for immediate and decisive government response, including strong countermeasures, diplomatic and trade mechanisms, and domestic mitigation measures to safeguard jobs and industries [6][7] - The USW urges governments and industry leaders to oppose the tariffs and prioritize workers' needs over political games [8] Union Background - The USW represents 225,000 members in nearly every economic sector across Canada and is the largest private-sector union in North America, with 850,000 members in Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean [9] - The USW has a strong track record in creating healthier, safer, and more respectful workplaces and negotiating better working conditions and fairer compensation [10]