1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

Dear Senator Budd, Thank you for your response. However, your reply did not address the specific economic harms tariffs are inflicting on American workers, businesses, and families like mine. While you assert that tariffs support U.S. manufacturing, the reality is they are increasing costs, eliminating jobs, and harming small businesses. Tariffs act as a tax on imports, raising prices on essentials like appliances and groceries, reducing purchasing power. Companies like Stellantis and Whirlpool are cutting jobs due to rising costs. Many manufacturers rely on global supply chains, and tariffs make production more expensive. Many small businesses depend on imports. Tariff-related price hikes create financial instability, limiting growth and investment. The American people deserve trade policies based on strategy and evidence, not arbitrary tariffs acting as a tax on our livelihoods. I look forward to your response outlining the steps you will take to address these concerns. Your response suggests that tariffs are being used to counteract "unfair trade practices." However, instead of strategically targeting bad actors, these tariffs are broadly applied, damaging both American industries and our global standing. Meanwhile, many of the same industries Trump claims to protect are experiencing their worst downturns in years due to these policies. The economic data is clear: the costs of these tariffs overwhelmingly fall on the American people, not foreign governments. The idea that they benefit U.S. manufacturing is contradicted by widespread job cuts, declining business confidence, and increased inflationary pressures. Instead of vague assurances, I urge you to: Reassess tariffs to ensure they do not harm American workers and consumers more than they help. Support returning trade policy oversight to Congress, preventing unilateral tariff decisions. Advocate for relief measures for businesses and consumers affected by rising costs. The American people deserve economic policies based on sound strategy and evidence, not arbitrary tariffs that function as a tax on our livelihoods. I look forward to your response outlining the specific steps you will take to address these urgent concerns.