Big Take The Front Lines of Trump's Trade War? Look at Kentucky
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Oct 13, 2025 
Bloomberg White House reporter Josh Wingrove explores Kentucky's economic landscape alongside Governor Andy Beshear, delving into how Trump's trade policies impact local industries. They discuss the profound effects of tariffs on manufacturing, bourbon exports, and the state's burgeoning electric vehicle sector. Beshear expresses concerns over rising costs and uncertainty for businesses, while highlighting Kentucky's transition from coal to a diversified economy. The duo examines the complexities of tariff strategies and their potential political ramifications.
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Kentucky's Trade Vulnerability
- Kentucky is highly trade-exposed with imports large as a share of its economy, making it vulnerable to shifting tariffs.
- Tariff fights hit both inputs (steel, aluminum) and exports (bourbon, aerospace), squeezing local manufacturers and exporters.
Constantly Changing Tariff Regime
- Tariff policy has evolved rapidly from broad to product-specific measures, creating constant uncertainty for businesses.
- Governor Beshear warns the only constant is daily change, which raises costs and planning risks for Kentucky firms.
Ford's Local Stakes
- Ford employs over 10,000 workers in Kentucky and is a major state investor, making its stance pivotal to local jobs.
- Beshear described Ford as a huge investor and emphasized the state's dependence on the company continuing its operations.