Lansing, Michigan – Michigan families are feeling the effects of federal trade policy in places far removed from Washington, at grocery stores, construction sites, border crossings and even in the state’s own purchasing accounts.
New reports released by Michigan departments paint a broad picture of those pressures, with higher food prices, weaker trade with Canada, rising building costs and fewer projected affordable homes. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said the findings strengthen her argument that federal tariffs are hurting households and businesses across the state.
“We’ve heard over and over again from Michiganders that DC Republicans’ irresponsible tariffs are hurting their pocketbooks, and these newest reports back that up,” Whitmer said.
“Michiganders are facing higher prices at the grocery store and the gas pump, and businesses are having to choose between laying off employees or passing costs onto customers.”
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The studies were produced in response to Whitmer’s April executive directive, which instructed several departments to examine how tariffs were affecting Michigan industries and consumers.
Some of the clearest changes appeared in food costs. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development reported that consumer food prices rose 3.1% between May 2025 and May 2026. Meat, poultry and fish prices increased 6.2%, while fruit and vegetable prices climbed 6.1%.
Michigan’s relationship with Canada also showed signs of strain. Exports to the country, the state’s largest trading partner, fell 12.3% last year, according to MDARD.
The effects extend beyond agriculture. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority estimated continued tariff-related cost pressures could mean 350 to 400 fewer affordable homes are built. The Michigan Department of Transportation found the Blue Water Bridge recorded about 190,400 unrealized crossings in 2025, representing roughly $3.085 million in lost toll revenue.
State purchasing has become more expensive as well. The Department of Technology, Management and Budget reported tariff-related increases ranging from several thousand dollars to as much as 25% on some office supply purchases and construction projects.
Meanwhile, unemployment benefit duration has lengthened. From January through June, the monthly average increased from 15.1 weeks in 2025 to 17.4 weeks in 2026. By June, the average reached 17.2 weeks compared with 14.2 weeks a year earlier.
Whitmer and Attorney General Dana Nessel are among officials challenging the Trump administration’s tariffs on more than 80 countries. Whitmer said Michigan will continue pushing for a trade policy that lowers costs, supports businesses and provides greater economic stability.