A recent survey of 500 manufacturing workers in the US shows that most are opposed to President Trump’s tariffs, despite his claims that they will benefit American manufacturers and workers. The majority of respondents believe tariffs will hurt their jobs and careers.
When asked if tariffs would help or hurt their job and career, more than twice as many workers (57%) said it would hurt rather than help, while 22% thought it would have no impact. A slim majority of workers who voted for Trump in the 2024 election also disagreed with his tariff policy.
Manufacturing workers cite higher costs, reduced purchasing power, and difficulty in telling if consumers will buy products at a higher cost as concerns. Some support tariffs as a way to bring jobs back to America, but many believe the current approach is flawed.
The survey found that nearly half of manufacturers rely on imported components from countries like China, Mexico, and Canada. When asked about the impact of tariffs on their companies, 60% said increased tariffs would hurt, while only 2% believed they would help.
Manufacturers also express low confidence in Trump’s ability to act in the best interests of US manufacturing workers. Despite his base support among Republican voters, many believe he is not prioritizing their needs.
Overall, the survey results suggest that Trump’s tariff policy has significant opposition from the very group he claims to be helping: American manufacturers and workers.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/interactive/2025/manufacturing-workers-us-trump-tariffs-poll