California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a 'code red' economic emergency over the latest wave of high tariffs, warning that unpredictable trade policies are disrupting supply chains and hitting consumers and businesses alike.
In an online advertisement aired on Fox News, Newsom highlighted California's status as the world's fourth-largest economy—powered by innovation, manufacturing and agriculture—and argued that new tariff barriers threaten that growth. 'Today, it's school backpacks. In a few months, it'll be Christmas toys,' he said.
Shipment data backs up the alarm: cargo volumes at the Port of Oakland plunged by 20%, while the combined Long Beach and Los Angeles ports saw a 35% drop and cargo bookings fell 60%. These disruptions underline how quickly global trade dynamics can shift.
'Decisions made today—or indecision—will have a profound impact on tomorrow,' Newsom stressed, noting that even if tariffs were lifted immediately, it could take weeks or months for goods to reach store shelves.
He urged the federal administration to restore stability and predictability to tariff policies, so small businesses and manufacturers can plan investments and hiring. Meanwhile, California became the first state to file a lawsuit challenging the federal tariff measures, marking a rare legal pushback.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
