- United States
- Ore.
- Letter
The Oregon economy relies heavily on the sportswear industry, which employs thousands of workers and contributes significantly to the state's GDP. Imposing tariffs on footwear imports would severely disrupt this vital industry, jeopardizing jobs and economic growth. Major brands like Nike, Adidas, and Columbia Sportswear are headquartered in Oregon, and tariffs would undermine their competitiveness, forcing them to raise prices or relocate operations overseas. This would devastate local communities and lead to severe job losses across the supply chain. For the well-being of Oregon's workers and businesses, it is imperative to exempt footwear from these harmful tariffs and urge Congress to end the emergency order that is allowing Trump to impose such damaging tariffs. A targeted approach focused on strategic sectors would be more prudent than indiscriminately taxing consumer goods central to a state's economic engine. Protecting the sportswear industry will safeguard Oregon's prosperity and prevent widespread economic damage.