McConnell criticizes Trump tariffs, warns Kentucky economy

Senator Mitch McConnell publicly criticized former President Donald Trump's tariffs during a visit to Northern Kentucky, highlighting that such trade measures effectively act as a tax increase on American taxpayers and consumers. At a press conference with local business leaders and Chamber of Commerce representatives, McConnell emphasized that the costs of a trade war are ultimately borne by regular voters and small businesses, many of whom are struggling with rising prices. Business leaders present echoed concerns, arguing that the tariffs’ abrupt implementation creates significant challenges, particularly for smaller companies that cannot easily absorb increased costs and must pass them on to customers. McConnell, a longtime advocate for free trade, also pointed to Kentucky's vulnerability due to its heavy reliance on both imports and exports. He is co-sponsoring legislation to require presidential justification for tariffs and to give Congress the power to reject them, though he acknowledged its passage is unlikely. The discussion drew historical parallels to previous tariff policies and called for exemptions or reconsideration to protect small businesses.