Rogers Shifts on Tariffs as Michigan Race Heats Up
Michigan Senate candidate Mike Rogers pivots on trade policy, signaling growing tension within the GOP over tariffs.
2 min read
Michigan Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers is distancing himself from President Donald Trump over one of his key economic policies, signaling a potential rift within the Republican Party over trade issues. In a recent campaign ad, Rogers criticized the ongoing tariff war with Canada, emphasizing the need for a resolution to benefit Michigan families.
Breaking with Trump on Tariffs
“Drinking a Labatt and watching the Red Wings, man, it just doesn’t get any more Michigan than that. And here in Michigan, we know that Canada is not our enemy. We need to end this tariff war now,” Rogers said in a campaign ad released on Tuesday.
The ad, part of a $7 million coordinated buy between Rogers’ campaign and the National Republican Senatorial Committee, highlights his focus on lowering prices for Michigan consumers. “As Michigan senator, I’ll bring both parties together to lower your prices. That’s job number one,” he said, contrasting his approach with Democratic candidate Abdul El-Sayed, who advocates for a $3,000 tax increase.
El-Sayed Responds with Jabs
El-Sayed dismissed Rogers’ shift, calling him “not a serious person” and joking about the Labatt beer reference. “You cheered this tariff war from the beginning, and you’re flip-flopping now because your poll numbers are in free fall,” he said on X.
Economic Pressures Fuel Debate
The economic squeeze is intensifying as food and gas prices rise. A Daily Wire analysis found that the cost of a weekly grocery basket at Aldi in Macomb County increased by 13.9%, the largest rise among seven counties examined. Tariffs are cited as a key factor in driving up prices, particularly for canned goods.
Gas prices in Michigan also remain high, with the average regular price at about $4.40 per gallon, slightly above the national average. These rising costs are putting added pressure on Rogers’ new messaging, as he seeks to appeal to voters concerned about the economic impact of trade policies.
Source: Daily Wire
