California Governor Gavin Newsom is sounding the alarm after federal courts blocked key Trump-era tariffs this week, calling the trade policies "illegal" and a crushing blow to small businesses. 🛑 While celebrating the legal wins, he warned the damage is already severe—and could get worse.
"We're in this chaotic moment. It's self-inflicted by the Trump administration," Newsom said on a recent podcast, sharing stories of entrepreneurs pushed to the brink. One baby product seller told him she might lose her home due to tariff costs. Another business owner—who sold Newsom an e-bike—pleaded for help via email after tariffs threatened to shut down his family-run shop. 🚲💔
Why it matters: Two courts ruled Trump overstepped his authority with tariffs targeting imports like toys and electronics. But an appeals court temporarily reinstated some measures, leaving businesses in limbo. 📉
Newsom emphasized that California-led lawsuits against the tariffs are finally gaining traction: "Families… have felt the real cost of Trump's ego-driven trade war: canceled shipments, layoffs, business closures." He called small businesses the hardest hit, with one entrepreneur telling him tariffs caused "complete devastation."
While the legal battles continue, the governor stressed urgency: "The damage has been done." For now, businesses await clarity—and relief. ⏳
