Resume free trade agreements to protect small businesses, workers, consumers

The continued trade war and escalating tariffs will have severe repercussions for small businesses and American consumers. Many small companies rely on importing goods or materials from abroad, and the increased costs from tariffs can devastate their narrow profit margins. Furthermore, the retaliatory tariffs imposed by other nations on US exports jeopardize markets for American producers. Ultimately, these tariffs drive up prices for everyday shoppers on numerous products from clothing to electronics. We cannot allow workers, entrepreneurs, and families to bear the brunt of this economic turmoil in the name of protectionist policies that benefit a select few large corporations. I urge an immediate de-escalation and renewal of free trade agreements that expand opportunities rather than create barriers.