The State of South Dakota is feeling significant impacts from President Trump’s trade war, especially due to tariffs and China’s freeze on U.S. soybean purchases. A recent statewide poll reflects that divide: with 49% of voters in support Trump’s tariff policies, while 44% oppose them. The strongest support comes from Republicans, with 70% in favor, compared to only 8% of Democrats. Independent voters leaned against tariffs, and older voters show slightly less support than younger voters.
These tariffs have raised costs for many South Dakota businesses and consumers, even though Trump argues they help level the playing field and force other countries to absorb the costs. Critics counter that Americans ultimately pay higher prices. The mixed results and unclear economic effects have left many residents divided over whether the strategy is helping or hurting the state.
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