Lawmakers Blast Trump Tariffs As Harmful, Reckless, And Dub It A Tax Hike

India-West News Desk

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressional representatives quickly reacted to the April White House Rose Garden event, where former President Donald Trump unveiled his controversial “Liberation Day” tariffs, including imposing a 26% levy on Indian imports. The move was presented as a response to what Trump asserts are India’s 52% tariffs on American goods.

Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI) was quick to condemn the move as reckless, warning it could harm both the U.S. economy and diplomatic relations. He shared his concerns on X, stating, “Trump just announced chaotic tariffs that will hurt our economy, damage relationships with our allies, slash American jobs, and increase prices on everyday goods. The evidence is clear: Trump’s never been worried about lowering costs; he’s only ever worried about himself.”

Representative Ami Bera (CA) also weighed in, arguing that the tariffs would disproportionately affect American consumers. “Let me be clear: these tariffs will not ‘make America wealthy again,’” Bera wrote on X. “These costs will be passed onto YOU—the American consumer. This is not a tax cut. This is a tax hike.”

Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA) was equally critical, suggesting that Trump’s tariffs could have dire global consequences and voicing her her views succinctly: “Donald Trump is singlehandedly plunging the global economy into a recession.”

Illinois Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi voiced concerns about the impact on working families, framing the tariffs as a move that benefits the wealthy. He explained, “Donald Trump’s blanket tariffs are a tax on working families so that he can cut taxes for the wealthiest Americans.” He further criticized the tariffs, stating, “These latest so-called ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs are reckless and self-destructive, inflicting financial pain on Illinois at a time when people are already struggling to keep their small businesses afloat and put food on the table. These tariffs isolate the United States on the global stage, alienate our allies, and empower our adversaries—all while forcing America’s seniors and working families to bear the brunt of higher prices.”

Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA) echoed concerns about the negative effects on small businesses and manufacturing. “These tariffs will raise costs on every American and actually hurt manufacturing in our country,” Subramanyam wrote. “Small businesses and working families will suffer the most.”