Whitmer asks Trump administration to end food tariffs, reimburse Michiganders for increased costs

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is using her final months in office to attack food tariffs imposed by the administration of President Donald Trump.

On Tuesday, Whitmer called for the U.S. Department of Treasury to end its tariffs imposed on food products, while also requesting that the federal government reimburse Michigan residents for the increased costs they’ve incurred from the tariff regime.

Whitmer, in a letter to U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, noted that Trump’s federal tariff policies have had a disproportionate effect on Michigan families. She also pointed out that, according to the National Taxpayers Union Foundation, Michigan households have faced an average tariff burden of $6,485 per household since January 2025. Whitmer’s office said that burden was the highest in the country. Meanwhile, food prices have continued to rise, Whitmer wrote, and grocery prices have increased by 2.4% in 2025.

“Right now, Michigan families are paying the highest tariff burden in the nation because of DC Republicans’ agenda, and those costs are showing up every time they check out at the grocery store,” Whitmer wrote. “In Michigan, we’ve worked hard to put money back in people’s pockets, but we need a federal trade policy that works with our allies, brings supply chains home, and makes life more affordable. Families deserve relief from rising prices on the essentials they depend on every day.” 

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The letter also emphasized how the tariff regime has heavily damaged the U.S. relationship with Canada.

“Specifically, exports to Canada fell 12.3% last year, signaling severe strain with our strongest trading partner — these tariffs and sudden policy reversals have weakened Michigan’s competitiveness and disrupted long‑standing trade relationships,” Whitmer wrote. “Federal leaders can step up and make real change. I ask that you end the new food tariffs this administration has levied in 2025 and 2026, and reimburse Michiganders for the increased cost of food.” 

A request for comment was sent by Michigan Advance to the U.S. Treasury Department. This story will be updated when a response is received.