I have long believed in a more aggressive position against China’s trade policies. However, I am horrified by our president’s tariff rhetoric, especially against Canada. Canadians are not just Maine’s neighbors; in many cases, they are family. Talking about invading and making them the 51st state is irrational and disrespectful to one of our closest allies and largest trading partners. It also does nothing to resolve existing trade issues. What it has done is galvanize Canadians in their rejection of our tactics.

Over the last two months of relentless assault on our allies, as well as on institutions that feed and house our most vulnerable, I have never felt more conflicted to be an American. I understand the goal of reducing our budget deficit and agree that needs to be a priority for our country, but this administration’s approach is to use a bulldozer to sweep the floor.

With the loss of both jobs and services associated with massive DOGE layoffs, as well as the tariff war, Maine is headed into rough seas. That’s especially true for our most vulnerable, so we’ll need to take care of each other.

Through my 25-year career in Maine’s nonprofit world, I know firsthand the extraordinary generosity of our foundations and Mainers of means. I know they will continue to be there for us, but the scale and scope of this latest reality will require all of us to step up. The good news is we’re good at that.

Andy Shepard
Rangeley