Press Releases

Los Angeles, CA — Today, Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) hosted a roundtable with the Korean business community in LA to hear firsthand how Trump’s tariffs is disrupting trade, delaying shipments, and raising the cost of essential goods. He also shared his push to end Trump’s tariffs, prevent him from punishing allies, and put Congress back in charge of trade.

“Today I met with Korean American business owners in Koreatown who are being hit hard by Trump’s reckless tariffs — prices are up, shipments are delayed, and it’s getting harder to plan for tomorrow,” said Rep. Jimmy Gomez. “These aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet, they’re family-run shops, local jobs, and people trying to build a future. I’m fighting to end Trump’s damaging tariffs and stop him from punishing our allies because our community needs trade policies that help them thrive, not ones that drive up costs for customers or threaten their businesses.”

During the discussion, Korean American businesses discussed how these tariffs and tax policies have driven up container fees and import duties, while causing uncertainty that makes it hard to grow or plan. Many also stressed the need for better workforce development support and a business environment that works for small businesses in LA.

Rep. Jimmy Gomez — a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, which oversees trade — has been holding the administration accountable in committee and led the Congressional Dads Caucus in calling out the harm to working families, and fighting to pass legislation to shut down Trump’s global tariffs. He recently visited the Port of LA to hear directly from port staff and highlight the real-world consequences of President Trump’s tariffs on imported goods — including a projected 35% drop in cargo volume next week. 

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