Capitol News

At a recent campaign event, Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers defended tariffs implemented during the Trump administration, stating they are "worth the financial strife being put on the American people." This position comes as Michigan faces new job losses attributed to these trade policies.

According to a report from The ‘Gander, plans for a $50 million aluminum forging plant in Detroit have been canceled. Auburn Hills-based Lucerne International Inc. decided to halt its investment, citing increased costs resulting from tariffs enacted under former President Donald Trump. The decision means the loss of 325 potential manufacturing jobs in Detroit.

The impact of tariffs is becoming a key issue in Michigan's 2026 Senate race. Rogers remains the only GOP contender so far and has publicly dismissed concerns about rising prices. At his campaign event this month, he reiterated that tariffs are "worth the financial strife being put on the American people," despite reports that more than 42,000 manufacturing jobs have been lost nationwide since new tariffs were introduced in April.

Michigan Democratic Party Chair Curtis Hertel criticized Rogers' stance. In a press release, Hertel said: "Mike Rogers’ reckless tariff policies just cost Detroit more than 300 manufacturing jobs and a $50 million investment that was supposed to bring production back from China. While Mike Rogers is out on the campaign trail mocking families worried about higher costs, his failed policies are killing opportunities for Michigan workers to rebuild the state’s manufacturing base."