There’s an initialism that’s become well-known ever since the election of the Trump/Musk administration: FAFO.
For those who may not know what it means, it’s simple: F___ Around and Find Out.
And now the state that did the F___ Around part by voting for Trump by 65%, is about to Find Out.
Bourbon down the drain
The Kentucky bourbon industry has become a vital part of our state’s economy. According to the industry group Kentucky Distillers Association, bourbon generated $9 billion in economic activity in Kentucky in 2023. It also generated more than 23,000 jobs, and resulted in $500 million in exports.
Now, with the Trump tariffs on Canada, the bourbon industry is under the gun – or more accurately, down the drain.
Not only is Canada considering retaliatory tariffs of its own – including on bourbon – but there is a growing “Buy Canadian” movement across the country, with retailers reporting significantly increased demand for Canadian whiskey over Kentucky bourbon.
And in fact, numerous retailers are pulling Kentucky bourbon completely off their shelves, and refusing to stock it again until the Trump tariffs are gone – and until Trump stops talking about annexing Canada. (“The anger is palpable,” said one store owner.)
And now it’s auto makers turn
In the past few days, Trump has moved forward with his threatened 25% tariff on steel and aluminum. Can you think of a major Kentucky industry that uses those two materials?
If Ford and Toyota have to pay 25% more for raw materials, do you think they will just absorb that cost? Or will it show up on the price tag at the dealership?
And if a new Ford now costs $35,000, how much will it cost in a few months? $40k? $50k? How many consumers will decide that is too much to pay, and just decide to hang on to their current model?
And finally, if auto sales drop significantly, what will it do to all the related industries in the state?
We knew it was coming – but 65% voted for Trump anyway
It’s not like all this is a surprise. Trump told us he was going to implement tariffs once in office. Economists on both sides of the aisle warned of the effects – but voters by and large said “Eh, tariff-schmariff. MAGA!”
Now, two of our major industries will be directly affected, and the ripple effects of the Trump tariffs will be painful all across Kentucky.
Two-thirds of us F__d Around. But unfortunately, all of us are about to Find Out.
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