This commentary is by Gary Miller. He is a writer and editor living in Montpelier.When Donald Trump announced his tariffs on our allies Canada and Mexico, the world’s economists spoke out right away. There was little chance, they said, that this action would benefit the U.S. economy. In fact, the damage would likely be great. In Vermont, business owners instantly expressed trepidation, and rightfully so. Canada, which Donald Trump had effectively declared economic war upon, is Vermont’s largest trading partner. Among other goods, we rely on Canadian imports for everything from agricultural products and electricity to metals and lumber.  Vermont businesses depend upon Canadian purchases of a broad variety of goods and services, from chocolate and machinery to ski vacations. What was Gov. Phil Scott’s response to this? Essentially nothing. In an epic release of bureaucratic platitudes, he explained that Vermont needs “time to understand what problem the president intends to solve, the results he expects to get, and the risks he’s willing to take, before we cast judgment. We need actual data and credible analysis to demonstrate disadvantages we are concerned about.” In plain English, of course, that means “I won’t express a real opinion right now, because I am terrified of Donald Trump. But I will be glad to add some more platitudes after he’s taken action, because then I can sound brave enough to keep my poll numbers up.” Of course, there are other issues Scott is ignoring. But as a loyal Republican, he can’t be expected to care that Trump is terrorizing the immigrants who work Vermont dairy farms, and imprisoning legal residents for expressing unpopular opinions. But Scott has been beating the drum about Vermont’s economy throughout his tenure. One would expect a more vigorous defense of free trade.READ MORE Now the results of Trump’s folly are rolling in, and we have tangible proof that his Oval Office tantrums are hurting Vermonters. According to a recent VTDigger piece, Canadians are boycotting Vermont products and services. Canadian purchases of Skida’s sporty winter hats are down 30% from a year ago. A Canadian customer canceled a large order of Barr Hill’s award-winning gin. A Canadian retailer ceased sales of Vermont-made Bivo water bottles. And Canadians are canceling their Vermont vacations. Given all this, is Phil Scott publicly explaining the problem, being honest with Vermonters and the world about the negative impact of Trump’s economic insanity? Nope. Although he did send a minion or two to hint that we can work this out with the Canadians by being nice. Why the silence? Where is the man who has been a staunch defender of Vermont’s economy? With the possible destruction of the national economy, the federal government, and even democracy at hand, where is Phil Scott? Why won’t he proudly and publicly stand up for Vermont?No one really knows, but don’t worry. When Vermont’s tax receipts drop like a rock due to tariffs, you can bet Scott will show up to ask for more budget cuts.Read the story on VTDigger here: Gary Miller: Tariffs are damaging Vermont’s economy. Where is Phil Scott?. ...read more read less