Mayors, Business Leaders Express Tariff Concerns Across Florida, California

Concerns about President Trump's tariffs are mounting among small business owners across the U.S., particularly in regions heavily reliant on international trade. In Savannah, Mayor Van Johnson highlighted the unpredictable nature of tariff policies and their potential economic impact on local businesses, especially as the Democratic Party prepares for important elections in Georgia. In Tampa, small business owners, including those in food and hospitality, expressed anxiety during a roundtable with Congresswoman Kathy Castor, emphasizing how rising costs from tariffs could lead to increased prices for consumers. Similarly, in California, Rep. Dave Min and local business leaders warned of the dangers of escalating trade tensions, referencing historical precedents like the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930. As tariffs continue to fluctuate, many businesses fear the uncertainty will harm their bottom lines and lead to job losses. Overall, the sentiment among business owners suggests a growing dissatisfaction with the current trade policies and their economic ramifications.