Springfield consumers react to incoming tariffs on Mexico, Canada
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Tariffs on Mexico and Canada begin Tuesday, March 4, along with an increase for tariffs on China.
'The tariffs, you know, they're all set,' President Donald Trump said. 'They go into effect tomorrow.'
President Trump said he has decided to move forward with 25% tariffs on nearly all goods imported from Mexico and Canada. The 10% tariffs already on China will also go up to 20%.
'I'm against the tariffs,' said Springfield resident Ida Moncrief. 'I think that it's going to raise everything so high.'
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Moncrief said she is worried about how these tariffs will impact people on social security like herself.
'This is not the first time that tariffs have been used in our governments,' said Springfield resident Tracy Thomas.
Thomas believes if there needs to be a rebalance, then it should take place.
'It's a complicated subject because our economies are interwoven,' Thomas said. 'On the other hand, the burden can't only be borne by the United States.'
Trump also announced incoming tariffs on steel and aluminum that would increase the price of items like cars and appliances.
'We already support our government and the tariffs aren't going to help anybody but the rich,' Moncrief said. 'And that's not fair to the normal Americans like us who work for a living or have Social Security. It's not fair. We can't afford it.'
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'Some things may go up, some things may come back down,' Thomas said. 'Other manufacturing may be stronger in the U.S. on those things that we presently depend on, Mexico, for example. So I think we can expect a rebalancing.'
Trump said the countries trying to take advantage of the United States will be punished by these tariffs.
'It's a very powerful weapon that politicians haven't used because they were either dishonest, stupid or paid off in some other form,' Trump said. 'And now we're using them.'
25% tariffs on steel and aluminum are planned to take effect on Wednesday, March 12. Trump also announced tariffs on external agriculture products that would begin in April.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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