Governor cites new report projecting $2.2B in losses, steep grocery price hikes if tariffs fully implemented.
OLYMPIA, Wash. — Washington Governor Bob Ferguson issued a stark warning about the potential economic devastation President Trump’s proposed tariffs could bring to the state, citing a new nonpartisan analysis that projects massive job losses and significant price increases for families across the region.
The first statewide report on tariff impacts shows Washington could lose up to 31,900 jobs if Trump’s full tariff package is implemented through 2029, with $2.2 billion in lost revenues projected for the state over the next four years. The steepest job losses would occur in crop production, food, beverage and tobacco manufacturing, and aircraft manufacturing sectors.
“If the full tariffs are in effect through 2029, we expect up to a 16% increase for groceries over the next two years,” Ferguson said during a press conference. He added that clothing and shoe costs could rise 7% under the proposal.
The governor referred to Trump’s package of import duties, unveiled in April and branded by the former president as “Liberation Day” tariffs. Ferguson said state officials will use the findings to shape policy decisions and prepare communities most vulnerable to trade disruptions.
Local business owners say they are already experiencing the effects of trade uncertainties. Efrem Fesaha, owner of Boon Boona Coffee, described the constant tension tariffs create for his business.
“Coffee is the second most traded commodity in the world,” Fesaha said. “We’ve got invoices to show we’ve been paying the additional minimum 10% on our coffee. There is uncertainty around what percentage you’re going to be paying. How do you price your product so that you’re not losing such a huge amount?”
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Republican Party Chair Jim Walsh criticized the governor’s announcement in a statement, calling it “a desperate attempt to distract attention away from his budget and policy failures.”
Ferguson dismissed the criticism, emphasizing the need for reality-based leadership.
“It is easy to put out a press release and a statement I get that, that’s what he does. But look, as a Governor and as leaders in our communities, we need to engage in reality, and reality is what these numbers say.”