Governor Newsom’s Tariff Fight Gains Support from Anti-Poverty Advocates
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 16, 2025
SACRAMENTO, CA — Prosper California co-leads today issued statements in support of Governor Gavin Newsom’s and California Attorney General Rob Bonta’s lawsuit against President Donald Trump’s unlawful tariffs.
"The Trump Administration’s proposed tariffs are raising the cost of everyday essentials — from groceries to diapers to school supplies. Who hurts from these costs the most? California’s families are already struggling to afford their basic needs,” said Shimica Gaskins, President & CEO of GRACE - End Child Poverty CA. “Meanwhile, the Administration and Congress threaten to cut or even eliminate critical programs like Head Start, SNAP, and Medicaid, which will further raise costs on families. The last thing Californians need is another cruel financial burden. The Governor has been clear from the beginning that tariffs undermine the well-being of our children and the economic dignity of our families. We thank Governor Newsom and Attorney General Bonta for standing up for families and against these harmful policies."
“Families who are struggling the most, especially households earning income below the Real Cost Measure and already face barriers to making ends meet, are estimated to be the hardest hit by rising costs of goods following the Trump Administration's establishment of new or threatened tariffs," said Pete Manzo, President and CEO of United Ways of California. "We appreciate Governor Newsom for responding to this challenge directly, and urge the Legislature and the Governor to further protect already struggling households by expanding powerful anti-poverty cash supports like the California Earned Income Tax Credit and the Young Child Tax Credit, which helps families better afford everyday costs like gas and groceries."
"California's families are navigating an increasingly challenging economic landscape,” said Amy Everitt, President of Golden State Opportunity. “Rising costs of essential goods, coupled with uncertainties in federal policies, are placing strain on households striving to maintain stability. We commend Governor Newsom and Attorney General Bonta for taking decisive action to safeguard our state's economic well-being. It's imperative that we continue to look at ways to equitably raise revenues so our most vulnerable Californians aren't bearing the burden of these federal policies."