Capitol News

Michigan families, farmers, and small businesses are experiencing higher costs due to tariffs supported by former GOP Senate candidate Mike Rogers, according to several recent reports.

A CBS Detroit segment highlighted that Americans are bearing a significant portion of increased import taxes. "A recent Goldman Sachs report shows that Americans are picking up 55% of the cost of the higher import tax. And the proof is the rising cost of dining out. Industry experts say both restaurants and customers are struggling to try to keep up."

WXYZ reported on price increases at IKEA linked to tariffs on furniture imports. "IKEA is hiking up costs on big-ticket items as President Trump’s furniture tariffs take effect. […] For example, a sofa that would have cost you $849 in August is now $50 more. But that’s not all. A three-piece oak bedroom set is now $100 more than just two months ago."

Farmers in Michigan are also feeling pressure from inflation, low crop prices, and tariffs, as reported by Detroit News: "80% of surveyed farmers believe the U.S. farm economy may be or already is in crisis, with nearly half saying the country is ‘on the brink.’"

Despite these concerns, Mike Rogers has downplayed the impact of tariffs and inflation on working families. He has claimed there is “no appreciative inflation” and that “working families [are] not paying more” because of the tariffs he supports. Rogers was also noted for “making fun of those who worry about higher prices” and argued his tariffs are “worth the financial strife being put on the American people.” He compared the impact of his tariffs to a “shoe [that will] pinch every once in a while.”

Michigan Democratic Party spokesperson Joey Hannum commented, “While Michigan families and businesses struggle with higher costs and farmers face a full-blown crisis, Mike Rogers is mocking their concerns and pretending costs aren’t increasing. Price Hike Mike’s reckless tariffs are hurting working families across Michigan, and his dismissive attitude shows he’s completely out of touch with the economic reality Michiganders are facing every day.”