Velázquez Slams Trump’s Tariffs as Direct Attack on U.S. Families and Small Businesses

WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement after the implementation of President Trump’s 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico:
 
“Trump’s tariffs are nothing more than a tax hike on hardworking families and small businesses. Instead of fighting inflation, this policy will drive up costs for the American people while hurting the economy.  
 
“Today’s broad, senseless tariffs will increase costs by an estimated $800 in 2025 alone. The burden will fall the heaviest on lower-income families, who already spend a greater share of their income on goods more susceptible to tariffs.
 
“And the damage won’t stop there. Trump’s tariffs will move the dream of homeownership further away for millions of Americans. With 70% of the United States’ lumber and gypsum imports coming from Canada and Mexico, construction costs will rise, further squeezing potential homeowners. Small businesses, already struggling with supply chain challenges, will be forced to either absorb rising costs or pass them on to customers.
 
“Democrats have been fighting to protect families and small businesses from these destructive policies. We believe that strengthening domestic manufacturing and building resilient supply chains cannot come at the cost of punishing consumers.
 
“Unlike Trump’s misguided tariffs, which act as an indirect tax on American households, Democrats have delivered real solutions. The Inflation Reduction Act has lowered energy and healthcare costs, while the CHIPS and Science Act is revitalizing American manufacturing and reducing reliance on volatile foreign markets. Unlike Trump’s tariff-driven tax hikes, Democrats are committed to economic policies that put working families and small businesses first.”
 

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