Trump's Trade Nominee Faces Skepticism from Both Sides Amid Concerns over Rural Economies

Washington, D.C. - President Donald Trump's pick for U.S. Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer, faced tough questions from both Republicans and Democrats during his confirmation hearing on Thursday.

Agriculture Concerns

Republican senators from farming states expressed concerns about potential retaliation against their constituents in the event of escalating trade tensions. "Farmers are worried they could become targets if we use tariffs to pressure other countries," said Senate Finance Committee Chair Mike Crapo (R-ID).

Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) raised similar worries, noting the threat of retaliatory tariffs on wheat, barley, and other commodities.

Greer's Response

Greer pledged to protect rural economies, saying he would focus on opening up new markets while respecting Trump's trade actions. However, he did not provide specific details on relief for farmers, leading to heated exchanges.

Business Concerns

Nevada Democrat Catherine Cortez Masto pressed Greer about concerns from business leaders. "There have got to be answers for so many businesses," she said, adding that his response was not sufficient.

Role in Administration

Amid uncertainty about Greer's role in the administration, questions arose about who would lead trade negotiations after Trump appointed Howard Lutnick as Commerce Secretary.

Democratic Criticisms

Democrats criticized Trump's trade policies, with Oregon Senator Ron Wyden calling them "rancid." "Trump has repeatedly lied to the American people about who's going to pay these tariffs," he said.

Republican Concerns

However, it was the more muted but evident Republican concerns that raised questions about the White House's future trade strategy.

Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) emphasized the need to balance short-term profitability with long-term stability. "We need to be looking around the world at other markets," he said.

New Markets and Economic Pain

Greer repeatedly stressed the importance of finding new markets to offset potential economic pain. "We need to go and gain market access where things have been closed until now," he said.

While acknowledging the potential for economic turmoil, North Carolina Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) emphasized the need to hold China accountable.