Internet reports that before Trump announced the tariff increase, the American Retail Leaders Association asked the government to change its focus. The group said it strongly urged Trump to double down on policies from his first term, such as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and the U.S. -Mexico Agreement (USMCA), that would reduce costs while achieving growth, while urging Trump to abandon policies that create uncertainty for American businesses and households. "Americans look to Trump to help them make life more affordable, and families, after years of rising prices, also want financial certainty when planning their budgets," Michael Hanson, who leads the group's public affairs, said in a statement.