Hassett's Optimism on Resolving Fentanyl Dispute with Canada

White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett expressed hope that a dispute involving Canada's alleged role in fentanyl smuggling into the U.S. could be resolved by the end of March. His comments imply a potential delay in U.S. tariffs on Canada, though clarity on the situation remains elusive.

White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett expressed optimism on Sunday about resolving a contentious issue with Canada regarding its alleged role in the smuggling of the fentanyl opioid into the United States. Speaking on ABC News's 'This Week,' Hassett mentioned the possibility of resolving the dispute by the end of March, raising hopes of stalling the reimposition of U.S. tariffs on Canada.

The tariffs, initially due to be reenacted by President Donald Trump, are part of his administration's broader concerns over drug trafficking rather than trade issues. Despite Canada contributing minimally to the U.S. drug smuggling problem, Hassett asserted that the administration is focusing on a 'drug war' rather than a trade war.

However, the adviser's comments added to the confusion surrounding the administration's stance. Later in his interview, Hassett's reference to a 'trade war' further complicated the matter, prompting Democratic Senator Adam Schiff to label the remarks 'incomprehensible.'

(With inputs from agencies.)