On April 16, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a lawsuit against the Trump administration over its tariff policies, marking the first state-level challenge to Trump's sweeping tariff measures.
Newsom argued that Trump does not have the authority to impose these destructive and chaotic tariffs. He criticized the "unlawful tariffs" for creating chaos for California families, businesses, and the economy.
"I've got four kids, 80% of their toys under their Christmas tree come from China. I've got family members living paycheck to paycheck - many family members," he said.
The toy industry has been hit particularly hard by US tariffs. Steve Pasierb, president and CEO of the Toy Association, previously stated that the 145% tariffs imposed by the US on Chinese goods, combined with China's decision to halt toy exports to the US, could jeopardize children's beloved Christmas traditions.
Analysts believe California's legal challenge highlights the unique importance of the tariff issue in the state. Following Trump's initiation of a global trade war, Newsom urged foreign countries to negotiate directly with California to avoid retaliatory tariffs on the state.
As the largest economy among US states, California's GDP and import volumes rank first nationwide. If considered an independent economic entity, California would have the fifth-largest GDP globally. According to data from the governor's office, the state's GDP reached US$3.9 trillion in 2023, and its total trade volume approached US$675 billion in 2024.
Related News:
OMG | Robert Barwick: Chinese should be proud to have 'peasants'
'Am I going to sell bald dolls?': Trump's tariffs on China frustrate US toy makers
Comment