Governors from three states—New York, Illinois, and California—are joining forces to demand that the federal government issue refunds of $13.5 billion due to the tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump, which were recently ruled illegal by the U.S. Supreme Court. New York Governor Kathy Hochul highlighted the financial burden these tariffs placed on residents and small businesses, stating that they have cost the average household in New York $1,751 over the past year. This call for refunds comes in light of claims that the tariffs served as unjust taxes that harmed consumers and small enterprises alike.

Hochul, along with fellow governors JB Pritzker of Illinois and Gavin Newsom of California, has expressed that these tariffs were not only illegal but also detrimental to the economic interests of their constituents. The collective push for refunds signals a broader discontent among Democratic governors regarding the Trump administration's trade policy, particularly its implications for local economies. With the governors also eyeing future presidential elections, this issue may further elevate their political platforms.

As the three governors advocate for financial redress, the situation underscores the ongoing fallout from Trump's trade policies and the lingering economic ramifications for the states affected. Their unified stance may influence public opinion and political dynamics moving forward, especially given the anticipated 2028 presidential election, where all three are considered potential candidates. The outcome of this refund request is likely to resonate well beyond the immediate financial implications, potentially shaping future trade policy discussions in the United States.