US leaders, businesses hit out at tariffs as Canada suspends trade talks

A widening circle of American political and business figures is criticising the Trump administration's tariff policies after Canada suspended bilateral trade negotiations and announced retaliatory duties, deepening a dispute that critics say will squeeze households and companies on both sides of the border.

The breakdown in talks on Friday prompted Washington to impose 50 percent tariffs on $20 billion worth of Canadian goods the following day. Ottawa has scheduled its own counter-duties to take effect from September 8. The escalating measures are expected to push up prices for consumers in both countries.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer took to social media on Sunday, accusing President Donald Trump of adding "another bill" for working-class families already struggling with rising costs. "Trump's chaotic trade wars are bleeding the American people dry, and now he's coming back for more," Schumer wrote, calling for an immediate end to the tariff friction.

State leaders in regions tied closely to cross-border commerce also voiced concern. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer described the "unique shock" the dispute is delivering to her state, a hub for the U.S. auto industry. "These tariffs act as a tax hike on Michigan families and businesses by raising prices at the grocery store and the gas pump," she said on Facebook, adding that uncertainty could force automakers to lay off workers or pass costs onto customers.

California Governor Gavin Newsom also questioned the administration's decision to target one of America's closest allies and most significant trading partners.

The business community has joined the criticism. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce urged both sides to return to negotiations, warning that without a breakthrough the two countries risk being trapped in "an escalating tariff cycle that will only add to the burden on American households."

Joshua Bolten, CEO of the Business Roundtable, echoed those concerns, warning that the friction would raise costs for companies and consumers while disrupting essential supply chains across critical industries. He called on both governments to resume talks.