Here’s what was said.
Douglas, AZ — As President Donald Trump takes bold action to defend American workers from unfair foreign trade, some local communities are adjusting — and even finding savings in the process.
Mayor Jose Grijalva of Douglas, a small border town in southern Arizona, says residents are crossing into Mexico to buy cheaper groceries like tortillas, cheese, and snacks.
“The tariffs won’t hit us too hard,” said Grijalva. “We just head across the border to buy what we need.”
🇺🇸 President Trump Declares “Liberation Day” with Historic Tariff Surge
In a historic move that’s already rocking global markets, President Trump announced a 10% baseline tariff on all imports from more than 180 countries — with even tougher penalties for nations accused of abusing America’s trade system.
Countries like China (34%), the European Union (20%), and Japan (24%) now face “reciprocal tariffs” under the new America First trade strategy.
Trump called the sweeping new policy “Liberation Day” — a moment to reclaim economic independence and put American jobs first.
“For too long, other nations have taken advantage of American generosity,” Trump said. “Those days are over.”
🚨 Some Arizona Officials Express Concern About Short-Term Price Hikes
The Greater Phoenix Chamber says it’s “deeply concerned” about how tariffs might disrupt local agriculture, manufacturing, and supply chains.
“Prices on essential goods could rise,” the Chamber stated. “We urge the administration to maintain dialogue with trade partners to protect Arizona’s economy.”
But many conservatives argue the short-term pain is worth the long-term gain — especially for U.S. industry and middle-class workers.
💼 Wall Street vs. Main Street: What Experts Are Saying
Some economists — particularly on Wall Street — are critical of Trump’s tariffs. JPMorgan’s Michael Feroli warned the economy could face inflationary pressure and a potential slowdown in consumer spending.
Tulane University finance professor Peter Ricchiuti echoed similar concerns.
“Tariffs have never worked. They’re prosperity killers,” Ricchiuti said.
But supporters counter that these are the same voices who supported globalism and offshoring American jobs for decades. Now, President Trump is changing the game.
🛒 Border Towns Like Douglas Adapt by Shopping in Mexico
Despite media panic, everyday Americans — especially in small towns — are adapting with common sense.
Residents of Douglas, AZ, located right along the U.S.-Mexico border, are taking advantage of lower prices across the border for items like:
- Fresh tortillas
- Local cheese
- Basic snacks
- Everyday household goods
“We’ll be fine,” Grijalva said. “We know how to stretch a dollar.”
📉 Emergency Declaration in Douglas Over Border Closures
Earlier this year, Mayor Grijalva declared a state of emergency in response to the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement orders. The concern? A potential hit to local revenue and higher municipal costs.
“We’re willing to work with the federal government,” Grijalva said. “But we’ll need support if the executive orders hurt our economy.”
Still, the Mayor stressed cooperation with Trump’s administration while looking forward to new opportunities for cross-border trade.
🌐 Conservative Leaders Back Trump’s Economic Stand
Trump’s tariffs are part of a broader push to bring back Made in America and restore economic sovereignty. Supporters say the media’s fearmongering hides the bigger picture: a stronger, more self-reliant America.
And with prices on foreign goods rising, domestic production may finally get the boost it needs.
“We’ve let foreign countries dominate our markets for too long,” one Arizona rancher said. “Trump is the first president with the guts to fight back.”
📣 The Bottom Line: Trump’s Tariffs Are a Wake-Up Call
While critics warn of short-term disruptions, Trump’s America First trade strategy is rebalancing the global playing field.
Whether it’s cheaper shopping in Mexico or long-overdue trade reform, one thing is clear: Americans are adjusting — and the era of silent surrender is over.