By Ricky Dana, Candidate for US House, Missouri-4
Key takeaway: As of August 6, 2025, the latest “Trump 2.0” tariffs are in force—pushing up prices on cars, copper-lined electronics, groceries, beer, lumber, and more. And make no mistake: Missouri’s own Mark “Awful” Alford voted for these tariffs in the 2025 budget bill—against Missourians’ best interest, even while bragging about signing it.
Which Items Will Cost You More?
Here’s what the new tariffs mean for everyday expenses:
- Steel & Aluminum (50%) – Appliances, cans, canned goods, and construction tools.
- Copper (50%) – Electronics, wiring, plumbing, and home fixtures.
- Automobiles & Auto Parts (25%) – Imports and non-USMCA parts will cost more, raising car prices.
- General Imports (10–40%) – Electronics, clothing, furniture, toys, and home goods.
- Groceries & Lumber (10–35%) – Beer, grains, fruit, lumber, and energy goods.
- Pharmaceuticals & Semiconductors (planned, up to 250%) – If enacted, will drive up tech and healthcare costs.
Price Impact Chart
Chart Sources:
Trade Compliance Resource Hub – Trump 2.0 Tariff Tracker
Reuters – Tariff Deadlines & Rates
AP News – Trade Impacts & Consumer Costs
Washington Post – Global Economy Effects
What This Means for Rural Missouri
Here’s how these tariffs hit local households hardest—and why voting for them was against Missourians’ best interest:
- Higher vehicle costs: Rural families often rely on durable pickups or imported parts—expect sticker shock.
- Expensive wiring & appliances: New homes and repairs mean higher bills for copper-dependent goods.
- Staple price hikes: Beer, grains, fruits, and canned goods could soon sting at the checkout.
- Costlier building materials: Lumber and steel for barns, fencing, and repairs will cost more.
- Future healthcare & tech impact: If tariffs on drugs or semiconductors go through, local health and internet costs could climb.
Bottom Line
These tariffs aren’t abstract policy—they’re a direct hit to rural budgets. Mark “Awful” Alford voted for them in the 2025 budget bill—against Missourians’ best interest—knowing they would raise costs for families, farmers, and small businesses across our district. When Washington signs bills like this without thinking about rural Missouri, we’re the ones left paying the price—literally. As your next congressman, I’ll fight to stop this kind of back-room economic hit job and work for trade policies that protect, not punish, working families.
Sources: