Brian Bryant, International President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union), issued a statement following a Supreme Court decision regarding the authority to impose tariffs on foreign imports.
Bryant expressed concern about sudden tariff decisions, particularly those affecting close allies such as Canada. He said, “Arbitrary, snap tariff decisions—especially those targeting close allies like Canada—create uncertainty that endangers jobs in highly interdependent industries such as aerospace and manufacturing, raises prices for consumers, and makes it harder for businesses and workers to plan for the future. That instability also complicates collective bargaining, where predictability is essential to securing strong contracts and long-term job security.”
He emphasized that while the IAM Union supports using targeted tariffs to protect workers from unfair global competition and human rights violations, trade policy must be based on constitutional guidelines. “The Supreme Court decision reinforces the U.S. Constitution’s clear assignment of authority to Congress to impose tariffs on foreign imports. Trade policy must be grounded in that framework and carried out with care,” Bryant stated.
Bryant also criticized how past tariffs have affected union members and consumers more than corporations. “It is deeply troubling that throughout this process, it has been our members and everyday consumers who have shouldered the burden of these illegally imposed tariffs, while the very corporations that bankrolled this administration may now be first in line for rebates. Workers paid the price, so they should be the first ones to see relief,” he said.
He concluded by calling for trade policies that support manufacturing jobs rather than cause economic disruption: “Trade policy should strengthen manufacturing and workers—not create unnecessary economic chaos.”
The IAM Union represents about 600,000 active and retired members across North America in industries including aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, rail, transit, healthcare, automotive, among others.
