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Trump’s Tariffs Will Only Increase Prices and Hurt New York Consumers and Small Businesses

New York and Canada Are Major Trading Partners

August 25, 2026 - On Monday, after President Trump and his administration launched their latest cost-increasing trade war with Canada, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement:  

“President Trump and Republicans promised to lower costs and make life more affordable, but they’ve used their total power in Washington to make life more expensive than ever. 

“They’ve cut Medicare and Medicaid to give tax cuts to billionaires, launched a reckless war in Iran that sent gas prices skyrocketing, and pushed tariffs that are making groceries and essentials more expensive. 

“Let’s be clear: these latest tariffs against Canada directly hit Americans. They will only increase costs on New York families and hurt our state’s small businesses. Trump needs to stop the political games, go back to the negotiation table, and get a deal done that lowers costs and strengthens our economy instead of harming it.”  

The president’s tariffs have previously been found to be unconstitutional and have already raised costs on New Yorkers. In addition, Canada is one of New York State’s largest export markets for both goods and services, while the state imports more than $20 billion annually from Canada. Poll after poll after poll have found a resounding majority of Americans oppose Trump’s tariffs actions that have raised prices and hurt their families. 

Source:  Senator Kirsten Gillibrand