Brian Bryant, International President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union), responded to a recent Supreme Court decision regarding tariffs and trade policy. The IAM Union is North America’s largest aerospace and defense labor union, representing about 600,000 active and retired members in various industries including aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, rail, transit, healthcare, and automotive.
Bryant commented on the effects of rapid tariff decisions, particularly those that impact close allies such as Canada. He stated: “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 reiterated the IAM Union’s support for targeted tariffs used as part of broader efforts to protect workers from unfair international competition. “The IAM Union has long supported the use of targeted tariffs as one tool in a broader toolbox to protect workers from bad global actors who violate labor and human rights and undercut fair competition,” Bryant said.
Addressing the legal aspect of the Supreme Court ruling, Bryant stated: “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 expressed concern over how previous tariff measures affected workers: “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 concluded by emphasizing the purpose of trade policy: “Trade policy should strengthen manufacturing and workers—not create unnecessary economic chaos.”
The IAM Union continues its advocacy for policies that benefit both its members and broader sectors reliant on stable trade relations.
