President Trump’s sweeping new tariffs, announced Wednesday and already roiling global markets, may be aimed at revitalizing American industry—but for communities like Texas’ 3rd Congressional District (TX-3), the fallout could come fast and hit hard.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average as is down more than 1,400 points this morning and why wouldn’t it? The tariffs impose a baseline 10% duty on all imports, with targeted rates as high as 34% on Chinese goods, 25% on cars, and 20% on goods from the European Union. The administration is framing this as a necessary act of economic self-defense. But the immediate response from markets and world leaders suggests we may be entering a full-scale trade war with unpredictable consequences.
When the Trade War Comes to Your Doorstep
TX-3 is no stranger to global commerce. Our region includes Plano, Allen, McKinney, and parts of Richardson—cities that thrive on international supply chains, technology infrastructure, and a robust retail and small business ecosystem.
The tariffs hit key sectors in our district directly:
- Technology: Richardson’s telecom corridor includes major players like Tech Mahindra and Ericsson. These companies rely on imported components, especially from Asia. Increased costs could mean slower hiring, project delays, or reduced R&D investment.
- Automotive: Local dealerships and auto service businesses stand to lose if tariffs on imported vehicles and parts raise prices. That means fewer sales, thinner margins, and potentially fewer jobs.
- Retail and Small Business: Plano-based JCPenney, as well as thousands of smaller retailers and wholesalers across the district, depend on imported goods. With 17,906 small businesses employing over 160,000 people in TX-3, even modest cost increases can ripple out in the form of higher prices, lower profits, or layoffs.
This is not theory. It’s the reality of math—and economics.
Following Trump’s Lead, Not TX-3’s Needs?
Congressman Keith Self, who represents TX-3, has made his stance unmistakably clear. Within minutes of Trump’s speech, he tweeted out a video clip, declaring April 2 “Liberation Day.” That’s not just a rhetorical flourish—it’s a full-throated endorsement of a sweeping policy shift. But there’s no sign of concern from him about how this could impact the people he represents. No caution. No questions. Just lockstep alignment.
So it’s fair to ask: where’s the plan? Is there a long-term strategy to support local businesses while these tariffs take effect? Are we making investments in workforce development, supply chain resilience, or small business relief?
Saying “we’re going to be so rich,” as President Trump claimed, is not a plan. It’s wishful thinking, And for families in Allen, Plano, Princeton, McKinney, and across rural parts of the district—facing higher grocery bills—or for small business owners trying to budget for new equipment or hire staff, the costs are real and immediate. The promise of future wealth doesn’t help when today’s reality is economic pressure.
TX-3, Meet the Trade War
The backlash from other countries has been fast and fierce. China, the EU, and Canada all condemned the tariffs and are considering hitting back. That could mean higher costs for American exporters—including businesses right here in North Texas.
The White House assures us, this will lead to better trade deals. Maybe. But just as likely, it sparks a trade war that slows the economy, drives up prices, and puts global cooperation at risk. We’ve seen this before—and it didn’t end well.
What’s the Plan, Keith?
In theory, tariffs can be a useful tool to rebalance trade and support American industries. And sure, most of us want to see U.S. manufacturing and jobs thrive. But let’s be honest—that’s not what this is. These broad, sweeping tariffs aren’t strategic. They’re blunt, and they’ll hit American consumers and businesses hardest.
This isn’t the time for blind partisan loyalty or performative politics. It’s a time for real leadership—leadership that listens, thinks ahead, and puts local people first. We urge Rep. Keith Self to focus not on soundbites, but on the real-life impact this is going to have on the folks he represents.
Because let’s face it: what we’re watching right now is a high-stakes gamble with our local economy. And it’s not just abstract policy—it’s people’s livelihoods.
Somebody’s going to pay the price in the short term. Maybe it’s the business owner trying to replace equipment. Maybe it’s the family watching grocery prices creep up again, or the worker facing layoffs if costs keep climbing. Whatever the case, TX-3 deserves more than vague promises. We deserve a plan—and some honesty about what this really means for our community.
