Governor Gretchen Whitmer has voiced growing concern over the impact of federal tariff policies on Michigan’s economy, warning they are increasing costs for households and enterprises alike. Speaking during a Capitol address titled “Protect and Defend Michigan’s Economy,” she emphasized that the state’s two most vital sectors—automotive and agriculture—are bearing the brunt of these trade measures. n nWhitmer noted that tariffs are contributing to inflationary pressures, disrupting supply chains, and undermining business confidence. Small business owners echoed this sentiment. Casey Sorrow, who runs Odd Nodd Art Supply in Lansing’s Old Town district, reported unprecedented price hikes after two decades in the industry. “I’ve been selling art supplies for 20 years, and I’ve never seen anything like this year as far as price increases,” Sorrow said. n nDelays in shipments, vendor withdrawals, and rising operational expenses have become weekly occurrences. Some international suppliers have stopped shipping to the U.S. altogether due to customs uncertainties and the risk of lost cargo. “We’ve got vendors who will no longer ship to the U.S. because of tariffs and the uncertainty of whether it will actually arrive or be lost,” Sorrow added. n nRepublican lawmakers, however, argue that Michigan’s economic challenges extend beyond trade policy. Representative Ann Bollin (R-49th House District) pointed to broader structural issues, including high living expenses and underperforming education systems, as key factors driving residents and jobs out of state. “I think the biggest problem is we have to start living within our means,” Bollin stated, highlighting Michigan’s historical role in the Industrial Revolution and calling for fiscal discipline. n nShe advocated for cost reduction and education reform as essential steps to retain families and strengthen competitiveness. “If we’re losing jobs in the state of Michigan, it’s because it costs way too much to live here. Our kids aren’t learning in school,” Bollin said. n nIn response, Whitmer stressed the importance of state-level stability, urging legislators to finalize the upcoming budget before month’s end. “Uncertainty costs time and money, opportunities, and jobs,” she warned, underscoring how policy delays compound existing economic strains. n— news from Michigan Advancenn
— News Original —nWhitmer talks damage of Trump tariffs in Michigan economic speech Michigan Advance