Photo: Mark Schiefelbein ~ AP
PODCAST
November 12, 2026 ~ Michigan State University economist Charles Ballard joins Kevin to discuss Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s call for an end to new tariffs and grocery reimbursements for Michigan residents facing higher costs. The conversation explores the economic impact of tariffs and rising consumer prices.
LANSING, Mich. ~ Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s call to eliminate tariffs on imported food and reimburse consumers has renewed debate over the role tariffs play in rising grocery costs. While economists say tariffs have contributed to higher prices, they caution that ending them would likely provide only modest relief at the checkout line rather than sharply lowering food bills.
The proposal to reimburse Michigan families for tariff-related costs faces long odds, with experts noting such a program would be difficult to implement and unlikely to gain federal approval. Still, the discussion has drawn attention to the broader impact tariffs can have on household budgets, particularly for low- and middle-income families, who often feel the effects of higher consumer prices most sharply.
