Whitmer-ordered report links Trump’s tariffs to rising prices and slower growth across Michigan
Nov 06, 2025 | 1:06 pm ET
Description
President Donald Trump holds up a chart while speaking during an event announcing broad global tariffs in the Rose Garden of the White House on April 2, 2025. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
A newly released multi-agency report from the state of Michigan warns that federal tariffs and retaliatory trade measures are driving up costs for families, homebuyers and workers across the state.
The report, which was prepared following an executive directive from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, draws on data from several state departments, including Agriculture & Rural Development, Transportation, the Housing Development Authority and others.
Key Highlights
- In Michigan’s agriculture sector, the report notes a sharp drop in exports: wheat exports declined 89%, cherries down 62%, apples down 58%, and soybeans down 46%.
- Rising consumer food costs: the report estimates a 3.6% increase in food prices this year due to tariffs, with households in the bottom 10-20% income bracket facing as much as a 5% drop in disposable income.
- In the housing market, tariff-driven material cost increases are estimated to raise the price of a new home by about $10,900.
- Infrastructure and construction projects are also being affected, with state transportation officials projecting that the combined effects of tariffs and inflation could raise costs up to $218 million for road and bridge projects.
“Michigan families and businesses are all facing rising prices and constant uncertainty because of our chaotic national tariff strategy,” Whitmer, a Democrat, said in a press release. “While I cannot change the national tariff rate, I will continue advocating for Michigan every chance I get so we can keep lowering costs for families.”
The report cautions that higher food prices and rising housing costs may squeeze household budgets, particularly for lower-income families. Additionally, delayed or more expensive public projects could slow job creation and economic growth.
The analysis was released the same day that the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments on the legality of Republican President Donald Trump imposing sweeping global tariffs under an economic emergency powers statute.
Lansing, MI
