SEATTLE – Governor Bob Ferguson announced a significant legal move against President Trump’s tariffs, which are impacting Washington’s economy.
Joining a federal multi-state lawsuit, Ferguson filed an amicus brief to block what he calls “illegal tariffs” that are affecting trade-dependent Washingtonians.
Ferguson emphasized the impact these tariffs have on the state’s economy. “Washington is one of the most trade-dependent states in the entire country,” he said. “These tariffs are going to hurt.”
The tariffs, which impose up to 30% on products from China and 10% on many others globally, have disrupted businesses and raised prices. Ferguson noted that Washington’s unique trade position makes it particularly vulnerable, with $58 billion in goods shipped this year alone.
The coalition supporting the brief includes 24 partners, such as state and local officials, labor unions and businesses. John Holden, representing the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, District 751, stated, “Tariffs must be accompanied by real investment in infrastructure, incentives, and workforce development.”
Economic concerns were echoed by Suzanne Dale Estey of the Washington Economic Development Association. “We are facing very real and very deep economic impacts,” she said, highlighting job layoffs and revenue losses.
Steve Fogg, a partner at the Seattle law firm Core Cronin, contributed pro bono legal efforts. “These tariffs are crippling our state,” he said. “It’s Congress, not the president, who has the authority to impose tariffs.”
Watch the news conference here.
