Governor Gretchen Whitmer warns that new Trump tariffs could raise prices on groceries, home heating, and cars while threatening Michigan’s auto industry and jobs.
Trump Tariffs Could Raise Prices on Everyday Essentials in Michigan
LANSING, Mich. — Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a strong statement today opposing former President Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs, warning that they could have devastating consequences for Michigan’s economy, auto industry, and working families.
The proposed 25% tariffs on imported goods, including automotive parts, groceries, and energy resources, are expected to increase costs for consumers while putting more than a million Michigan jobs at risk, according to Whitmer.
Whitmer: Tariffs Will Act as a ‘Middle-Class Tax Hike’
Whitmer argued that the tariffs will drive up consumer costs, particularly on vehicles, home heating, and fuel, at a time when Michiganders are already struggling with high inflation.
“Michiganders are already struggling with high costs—the last thing they need is for those costs to increase even more. A 25% tariff will hurt American auto workers and consumers, raise prices on cars, groceries, and energy for working families, and put countless jobs at risk,” Whitmer stated.
The Governor also warned that corporations will pass the cost of tariffs onto consumers, forcing Michigan families to pay more for gas, home heating, and essential goods.
Impact on Michigan’s Auto Industry and Manufacturing Jobs
Michigan, known as the heart of the U.S. auto industry, could be among the states hit hardest by the Trump tariffs. Whitmer stressed that higher costs on auto parts and materials could lead to increased vehicle prices, slowed production lines, and job losses.
“It will harm our auto industry, driving up the cost of cars and slowing production lines,” Whitmer said.
Michigan auto manufacturers already face supply chain challenges, and adding higher tariffs on imported materials could further impact production and competitiveness in the global market.
Trump’s Tariffs Could Deepen Inflation and Economic Hardships
The proposed Trump tariffs come as American households continue to battle inflation, and Michigan’s working-class families could bear the brunt of the price increases.
“Trump’s middle-class tax hike will mean Michigan families pay more to heat their homes as they face below freezing temperatures, fill their gas tanks, and get affordable housing,” Whitmer added.
Economists warn that tariffs often backfire, as higher costs on imports push up domestic prices, causing consumers and businesses to suffer. The auto industry, a pillar of Michigan’s economy, could see production slowdowns, rising costs for raw materials, and potential job cuts.
Whitmer Calls for Proactive Solutions Instead of Tariffs
Despite her concerns over the proposed tariffs, Whitmer emphasized that she remains committed to strengthening Michigan’s economy, protecting manufacturing jobs, and working toward cost-cutting solutions for families.
“I’m proud of the progress we have made in Michigan to bring supply chains home, grow auto manufacturing, and ensure Michigan’s talented workers build the future of cars and components. I’ll be glad to work with him, and anyone, to protect Michigan’s auto manufacturing, lower costs, and fight for Michigan’s working families,” she stated.
Whitmer’s remarks signal a commitment to resisting policies that could jeopardize Michigan’s economic stability, particularly as the 2024 presidential election season heats up.
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