Dems label Trump’s tariffs ‘tax hikes’ as states brace for impact

President Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs have caused a stir among Democratic governors who are working to shield their states from the potential fallout. These tariffs impose a 10% baseline on all imports, with even steeper rates for countries with trade deficits. While the Trump administration argues that these aggressive tariffs will benefit the U.S. economy and protect American workers, Democratic governors have united in opposition.

Governors like Gavin Newsom, J.B. Pritzker, Josh Shapiro, Jared Polis, Tim Walz, and Kathy Hochul have spoken out against Trump’s tariffs and are taking steps to minimize the impact on their states. Newsom, a potential 2028 presidential candidate, is seeking international partnerships to exclude California from retaliatory tariffs imposed by countries affected by Trump’s tariffs. However, it is important to note that states do not have the legal authority to independently negotiate with foreign governments on tariffs.

Pritzker, another potential 2028 presidential contender, led a delegation of Illinois lawmakers to Mexico to strengthen economic cooperation. He criticized Trump’s tariffs as a tax on Americans, emphasizing the negative impact on working families. Similarly, Shapiro and Walz have condemned the tariffs as a tax on everyday necessities, making life harder for Pennsylvania and Minnesota residents.

Hochul, who has clashed with the Trump administration on various issues, described the tariffs as the largest tax increase in American history, arguing that they are hurting real people. Polis echoed these sentiments, calling the tariffs a significant tax hike that is causing harm rather than liberation.

Despite the criticism from Democratic governors, Trump has defended his tariffs, urging Americans to “hang tough” and emphasizing the benefits he believes they will bring to the country. He has stated that tariffs are a necessary step that should have been taken decades ago and will ultimately lead to greatness for the United States.

While the market has experienced panic and uncertainty following the implementation of these tariffs, Trump remains steadfast in his belief that tariffs are a positive tool for the country. He has reassured the public that, despite the initial challenges, tariffs will ultimately prove to be a beautiful thing for America.

As the debate over Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs continues, it is clear that Democratic governors are determined to protect their states from any negative consequences. Their opposition highlights the ongoing struggle between state and federal powers in shaping trade policy and the potential impact of these tariffs on the American economy.