Dear Neighbors and Friends, In my recent newsletter, I discussed the ongoing budget negotiations in the State House. Our decisions are significantly impacted by President Trump's reckless tariffs, federal funding cuts, and the dismantling of vital agencies and programs that support Minnesota's most vulnerable residents. Almost daily, we face new and unpredictable policies from the Trump administration. The latest example is the broad tariffs that threaten economies globally, and Minnesota will not be spared. Our state's economy depends on over $20 billion in foreign imports annually. These tariffs will increase the cost of everyday goods, negatively affect our farmers and grocery stores, and contribute to higher housing prices as we already struggle with a housing crisis. Ultimately, these Trump tariffs are a tax on Minnesotans and part of a pattern of undermining our state's economy and budget. When the federal government fails to act responsibly, it's crucial that Minnesota is prepared to lead. That's why Democrats are introducing legislation to create an action plan to thoroughly understand the far-reaching effects of these tariffs on our state and businesses statewide. Minnesota must be ready for the challenges ahead. My DFL colleague, Rep. Mike Howard, is championing a bill that will study the economic impact of these tariffs on all Minnesota families and businesses. With Congressional Republicans failing to hold the President accountable, we must take action at the state level to help Minnesota navigate this coming economic storm. Trump Tanking our Economy Let's be real, the economic effects of Trump's trade wars and tariffs are complex and have real consequences for Minnesotans. Gas prices remain at a national high, eggs are still ridiculously expensive, and families are being forced to choose between paying rent or buying food. In a recent article from CBS news, President Trump's recently implemented tariffs on Canadian imports are causing significant concern in the hockey community, particularly in Minnesota where the sport is deeply embedded in the culture. New trade policies affecting equipment manufactured in Canada - including skates, sticks, and protective gear - are expected to increase costs for players at all levels. Minnesota hockey families, retailers, and youth programs are particularly vulnerable to these price increases given the state's strong hockey tradition and proximity to Canada. Industry experts warn that rising equipment costs could impact participation rates, especially for youth players and families already managing the considerable expense of hockey involvement.  For far too long, our capitalistic system has prioritized corporate interests and the wealthy stockholders, while preying on the working class. Balancing the country's debt and economy on the backs of hardworking people deprives Americans of the ability to build a better economic future, all while rewarding corporations and billionaires who engage in wage abuse and theft. We saw this week how the stock market crashed due to recent tariff announcements and threats of further escalation. There has been increased volatility, with sectors particularly exposed to international trade experiencing significant declines. Investors are closely monitoring the situation, and market movements will likely continue to be influenced by news related to trade negotiations and policy developments. For example, after the US announced new tariffs, the stock market experienced a sharp drop, and subsequent threats of additional tariffs have kept the market on edge. These policies are also threatening people's 401(k) benefits. It's clear that the average person is feeling the effects of these trade wars. Tariffs introduce significant uncertainty and negatively impact the stock market through various channels, including reduced investor sentiment, increased volatility, lower corporate earnings, and disruptions to global supply chains—all while everyday Americans bear the burden. Small Business Impact Survey Amid additional federal tariffs announced this week, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development is gathering information from affected small businesses in Minnesota. In this period of uncertainty, there may be a lag in data, so this survey is a way for business owners to communicate directly with the department now. The survey takes less than five minutes to complete. By collaborating with Minnesota's locally owned small businesses, which face significant challenges, we can proactively plan for the state's future needs. Resources for laid-off Minnesota federal workers In Minnesota, we value the experience and expertise of state and federal workers. Last month, Governor Walz announced that the state launched a new website aimed at connecting these workers with new jobs, whether within state government or the private sector. If you have any questions about the resources available to our community, or on our work in the Minnesota House, please feel free to reach out! We have less than two months left in the legislative session, and now is a great time to touch base.  |