1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

Dear Representatives, I’m writing today about Donald Trump’s tariff situation. I own a small business where I hand make everything I sell (seemingly the “purpose” of the tariffs is aimed towards bolstering US based businesses like mine). Unfortunately it is not possible for me to source all of my materials in the USA, since some of it is made with very technical, very specialized processes and the factories and machines just don’t exist stateside! One fabric that I use for my most popular item, fidget toys designed for children with sensory issues to use in the classroom, is produced in only a single factory in China. Today about a dozen states announced a lawsuit against Donald Trump abusing his “emergency powers” to unilaterally declare tariffs on both China and other close trading partners. I ask to please add Washington to that list. Our great state is so progressive, I was surprised to see Washington absent from the list of states filing. I am fortunate that I had the ability to order 6 months of materials before the election, but my stock will run low soon and I cannot absorb 145% (or more!!) added cost. I am already selling at a loss to keep my product accessible to those who need it. If nothing happens soon, my business and the businesses of many of my colleagues will have no choice but to close. The loss of small business is devastating to communities like mine, and it feels like I’m watching the American Dream vanish into thin air before my eyes. Please join the lawsuit. The more states that join, the bigger voice we have. And right now I’m feeling rather voiceless.