Confirmation Hearing for US Trade Representative nominee faces bipartisan concerns
During his confirmation hearing on Thursday, President Donald Trump's pick for US Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer, faced skeptical questioning from both Democrats and Republicans.
Republican Concerns
Several key Republicans expressed concerns about the potential impact of escalating trade tensions on rural states. Senate Finance Committee Chair Mike Crapo, an Idaho Republican, noted farmers' worries about becoming targets of retaliation if tariffs are used to pressure other countries.
Sen. Steve Daines added that Montana commodities like wheat, barley, and pulse crops face the threat of retaliatory tariffs in ongoing negotiations with Canada and Mexico, which could harm his constituents who operate on "razor-thin margins."
Greer's Response
Greer responded by promising to protect rural economies and focus on opening up new markets. However, he did not provide concrete answers on specific relief measures for farmers, leading to tense exchanges.
Pressed on how his office would respond to concerns from business leaders, Greer suggested they "come talk to us." But he declined to offer specific solutions beyond saying that President Trump "knows how to balance these things."
Bipartisan Concerns and Trump's Authority
The hearing occurred amidst uncertainty about Greer's role in the administration and amid Trump's use of a 1977 law to implement tariffs without working through the trade office.
Members of Congress have limited recourse as lawmakers have delegated much of their trade authority to the White House over the decades.
Democratic Criticisms
Democrats also raised concerns, with Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon noting the significant reliance on trade in his state. He criticized Trump's trade policies as "rancid" and accused him of lying about who would bear the cost of tariffs.
Republican Concerns Influence White House
While Greer's confirmation process is unlikely to be derailed by Republican concerns, they could influence the White House's trade strategy. Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa highlighted the need to diversify markets and reduce reliance on China.
Greer promised to review China's compliance with the phase one trade agreement and consider carveouts for products like liquor produced in Tennessee.
Seeking New Markets
Greer emphasized the importance of accessing new markets to offset potential trade-related pain. He cited ongoing tensions with India as an example of markets that have been previously closed.