President Trump is escalating his costly trade war this month. To make matters worse, it is a trade war he's having against himself — but we are paying for it.

In Washington state, where our economy is tied so closely with the Canadian economy, we will feel that pinch. If fully implemented, these tariffs will result in $2.7 billion in taxes on Washington State importers. That cost will be passed onto you in the form of higher prices for essentials like energy, groceries, gas, and transportation.

Not to mention that Canadians who visit retailers in our district are now boycotting American stores. While having an easier time in the Bellingham Trader Joe's parking lot might be novel for the first few trips, the impact of losing our Canadian neighbors' participation in our local economy certainly is not worth it.

It is not just Canadian imports; taxes on Mexican imports and other nations are going to be passed onto you. This coming from a president that campaigned on fighting inflation and reducing costs from day one? Absurd. He has failed each and every day since taking office.

I know that Washington State deserves better. I will continue working in Congress to combat these tariffs and similar policies that drive up costs for everyday Americans. This is simply unsustainable.

More soon,

Rick