Trump Administration Tariffs Hurt Colorado, Washington Economies, Threaten Thousands Jobs

President Donald Trump's tariff policies under his America First agenda have led to higher costs and uncertainty for businesses across various U.S. states, including Missouri's Ozarks, Washington, and Colorado. Local businesses in Southwest Missouri report challenges due to fluctuating tariffs, which complicate future planning and increase prices. In Washington, tariffs are projected to raise grocery prices by up to 16%, used car costs by 25%, and natural gas prices by 14%, with an estimated loss of up to 32,000 jobs by 2029, particularly affecting trade-dependent industries such as agriculture and aerospace. Colorado has seen its effective tariff rate jump from 3% to 21%, impacting sectors like agriculture, construction, and aerospace, and raising costs for housing materials. Governor Jared Polis highlighted the strain tariffs place on small businesses, emphasizing that even American-made manufacturers face increased costs due to the global supply chain. While President Trump defends tariffs as necessary to protect the country’s economy, state leaders argue that much of the tariff burden is passed on to consumers and local businesses, exacerbating economic challenges.