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Governor Newsom: 'Tariffs Are Taxes on American Families'

Government and Politics

March 4, 2025

From: California Governor Gavin Newsom

SACRAMENTO - Governor Gavin Newsom today issued the following statement regarding the Trump Administration’s action to impose tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China:

“Tariffs are nothing more than a tax on hardworking American families - driving up the cost of groceries, cars, and essential goods.” - Governor Gavin Newsom

California is the fifth-largest economy in the world and is the country’s largest importer and second-largest exporter. The state relies heavily on trade with Mexico, Canada, and China, particularly for manufactured goods and agricultural products that employ Californians across the state. Over 40% of California imports come from Mexico, Canada, and China. Imports from these countries were $203.3 billion of the total $491.5 billion California imported in 2024.

Retaliatory tariffs will impact California businesses and exporters. Mexico, Canada, and China are California’s top 3 export destinations. Tariffs also hurt builders. The tariffs will affect access to important construction materials critical to rebuilding after the Los Angeles fires.