Small business group slams tariff whiplash as three-day reprieve offers no relief for Main Street

Statement from Ron Kurnik, Owner of Superior Coffee Roasting Co., Inc. in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, on the delay of 50% Canada tariffs and the mounting uncertainty facing Main Street small businesses

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – Aug. 19, 2026 – “A three-day reprieve from yet another round of nonsensical tariffs will not provide any relief for small businesses and just continues the cycle of whiplash trade policy decisions that make it harder for Main Street to succeed. 

“Tariffs are bad trade policies that hinder the profitability and growth of Main Street businesses like mine. I was hoping for an end to these failed tariff policies after the Supreme Court ruled against the initial tariffs, but to my chagrin the US is literally doubling down with a potential new 50% tariff on Canada. They would only extend the pain for many small businesses to export.

“My roasting operation and coffee shop sits within walking distance of the International Bridge in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Canada is a big part of our market. When the U.S. imposes tariffs on Canada, Canada typically retaliates. If that happens the revenue margin on everything I ship north is gone.

“Small businesses do not have the capital reserves or supply chain flexibility to weather tariffs. When costs spike, owners raise prices, cut hours, delay hiring, or close. This is on top of all the other economic challenges hitting us. My energy costs alone will go up 55% by 2028. I have had to raise prices another 6% this year already just to keep pace with cost increases, and I am not sure how much more my customers can absorb.

“What is happening to me is happening across the country. We urge policymakers to put Main Street at the center of decision making. Small businesses across this country are ready to grow. We look forward to working toward solutions that make that possible.  Tariffs are not part of that equation.”

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About Small Business for America's Future 

Small Business for America's Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders advocating for policy solutions that promote a thriving, inclusive economy. We work to ensure that lawmakers prioritize the needs of Main Street, advancing a just and equitable economic framework for small business owners, their employees, and their communities. For more information, visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org