In a move that underscores growing discontent over trade policies, Democratic state legislators have called on President Donald Trump to reconsider his tariff strategy, implemented a year ago, by sending a letter urging the abandonment of what they describe as a failing policy.
April 2 was dubbed “Liberation Day” by Trump, marking the imposition of tariffs on 90 countries with promises of revitalizing American manufacturing and job creation. However, the legislators argue, “your Liberation Day tariffs have liberated our constituents of their savings, their jobs, and their economic security.”
Tariffs, essentially taxes on imported goods, are paid by American companies and usually result in higher prices for consumers. According to a Tax Foundation analysis, these tariffs led to a 7% increase in retail prices last year, notably affecting products such as cars, clothes, toys, and furniture.
The legality of these tariffs has been challenged, with the U.S. Supreme Court declaring in February that Trump’s method of imposing them was unlawful, although it allowed the possibility of reinstatement through alternative means.
Additionally, the frequent lifting and imposition of tariffs by Trump have created a complex landscape that businesses and consumers find difficult to navigate. The letter highlights the consequences, noting “the manufacturing sector has lost tens of thousands of jobs, with employment declining every single month through December,” and points to a sluggish economy with GDP growth of just 1.4% in the fourth quarter of 2025.
Economists suggest that the tariffs have worsened an affordability crisis, exacerbated by ongoing inflation and corporate practices. This crisis has intensified following the U.S. invasion of Iran, which pushed gas prices above $4 a gallon for the first time in three years.
The legislators’ letter urges Trump to revoke the tariffs, offer refunds to Americans affected by them, and focus on economic accessibility for working families. “It’s not too late to change course and finally focus on what Americans actually care about,” it states.
Signatories of the letter include representatives from states such as Maryland, New Hampshire, Illinois, Iowa, Colorado, Pennsylvania, Texas, Minnesota, and Michigan. Among them is Maryland Rep. Adrian Boafo, who is campaigning for a Congressional seat.
