Jamieson Greer and Donald Trump’s tariffs, between this person and that possible fact a question is pertinent: what about the U.S. Senate?
Some silver context explains the approach:
- President Trump has stood by his plan to slap a 25% tariff on imports of products originating in Mexico and Canada starting this Saturday.
- But the confirmation hearing for Greer, Trump’s pick for U.S. Trade Representative, is scheduled for next February 6.
- So, is it right for Trump to unilaterally impose tariffs when the U.S. Senate has yet to evaluate Greer for his position.
Jamieson Greer and Donald Trump’s tariffs
Greer will appear before the Senate Finance Committee next week in a process that will evaluate his suitability to be the top trade adviser to Trump, who has self-appointed himself the “Tariff Man.”
In the executive branch, the United States Trade Representation (USTR) leads U.S. trade policy. Since 1962, it has been advising the President, negotiating agreements and coordinating interagency policies. It also oversees the USTR Office and works alongside other federal agencies on trade issues.
Trump noted that Jamieson was instrumental in imposing tariffs on China and replacing NAFTA with USMCA. According to him, his work alongside Robert Lighthizer helped bring back manufacturing jobs and reverse failed trade policies.
Greer was tasked by the president-elect with reducing the U.S. trade deficit.
U.S. Congress
The USTR Office leads U.S. trade policy with support from other agencies and public sector actors. Meanwhile, Congress retains legislative and oversight powers and advises the Administration through its Oversight Panel.
Through Intergovernmental Affairs and Public Engagement, the USTR Office oversees and coordinates 26 advisory bodies. These operate under the Foreign Trade Act of 1974 and focus on areas such as agriculture, industry, environment, labor, and Africa.
From January through November 2024, Mexico exported $466.626 billion in products, while the United States shipped $309.421 billion.
According to the Department of Commerce, Mexico’s manufactured products have 40 percent U.S. content, while Canada’s include 25 percent.