Maryland Senator Calls for Tariff Refunds

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U.S. Senator Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland is calling on former President Donald Trump to provide refunds to state residents and businesses who were harmed by his chaotic tariff policies. Alsobrooks says the tariffs have cost Maryland families an average of $1,744 more per year and increased the cost of building a new home by $17,500. She is also pushing for legislation to study the full impact of the tariffs on consumers and businesses.

Why it matters

Alsobrooks' call for tariff refunds highlights the real-world economic consequences of Trump's trade wars, which many experts say did more harm than good to American families and businesses. The senator's efforts to investigate the tariffs' impact and provide relief could set an important precedent for holding the former administration accountable.

The details

Alsobrooks cites data showing the tariffs have driven up prices across numerous consumer goods, from ground beef to orange juice. She says the tariffs also contributed to the loss of 108,000 manufacturing jobs nationwide. Citing multiple economic studies, Alsobrooks argues that the vast majority of the tariff costs were passed on to American firms and consumers, rather than foreign exporters.

• One year ago, Trump declared 'Liberation Day' and touted the tariffs as a way to make America 'rich as hell'.
• In February 2026, the Supreme Court ruled that Trump overstepped his authority in imposing the tariffs.
• A federal judge in New York then ruled that companies that paid the now-illegal tariffs are due refunds.

What’s next

Alsobrooks says she will continue fighting for legislation to investigate the full impact of the tariffs and provide relief to Maryland families and businesses.