Susan Collins criticizes Trump’s tariffs harming Maine lobster industry

Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) used a visit to a lobster processing plant on Monday to criticize President Trump’s tariffs, calling them a "direct threat" to Maine’s seafood industry.

The comments come as Collins faces a tough re-election battle in November, with her Democratic opponent, Sara Gideon, gaining in the polls. Maine’s lobster industry, which supports thousands of jobs and generates hundreds of millions in revenue, has been hit hard by Trump’s trade policies, particularly the 2018 tariffs on Chinese imports that led to retaliatory duties on U.S. seafood. China was once a major market for Maine lobster, but exports have plummeted since the trade war began.

Collins, who has previously broken with her party on key issues, emphasized the economic strain on local businesses, noting that lobster fishermen and processors are struggling to stay afloat. Her criticism of Trump’s policies may resonate with Maine voters, who have seen firsthand the impact of the tariffs on their livelihoods. Gideon, meanwhile, has seized on the issue, accusing Collins of not doing enough to protect Maine’s interests in Washington.

The race is one of the most closely watched in the country, as Democrats push to take control of the Senate. With early voting already underway, Collins’ ability to distance herself from unpopular Trump policies—while still appealing to her Republican base—could determine her political future. The next debate between Collins and Gideon is scheduled for October 15.