Dem senator hosts businesses concerned 'enormous uncertainty' of tariffs could kill crucial tourism industry

Fox News - Apr 22nd, 2025
Open on Fox News

Senator Peter Welch, D-Vt., is leading a series of roundtables with small businesses in Vermont, addressing growing concerns over the impact of tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. Business owners, like Jen Kimmich of Alchemist Brewery and Christa Bowdish of Old Stagecoach Inn, have expressed fears about rising costs and declining tourism. Kimmich noted a 5% price increase on products due to tariffs affecting her supply chain, while Bowdish highlighted a decrease in Canadian visitors, vital to the state's tourism. These tariffs, according to Welch and local businesses, are causing economic uncertainty and threaten Vermont's tourism-driven economy.

The broader implications of these tariffs could lead to lasting damage in cross-border relationships, particularly with Canadian tourists who are opting for alternative destinations. Business owners are worried about supply chain disruptions, with products sourced globally facing unpredictable pricing and availability. Welch, co-sponsor of a bipartisan bill to repeal the tariffs, argues that they are detrimental across political lines and geographic locations, calling for a reconsideration of the tariff agenda. Meanwhile, businesses remain in limbo, uncertain of the long-term effects as they attempt to navigate these challenges.

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RATING

7.2
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a detailed account of the concerns expressed by Vermont business owners and Senator Peter Welch regarding the impact of tariffs on the state's tourism industry. It effectively uses direct quotes and examples to convey the challenges faced by local businesses. However, the article could benefit from a more balanced presentation of perspectives, including those who support the tariffs or believe in their potential benefits. The lack of empirical data or expert analysis limits the article's ability to fully substantiate the claims made by its sources. Despite these limitations, the article remains timely and relevant, addressing a topic of significant public interest. Enhancements in the areas of balance and data support could improve the article's overall quality and impact.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The story accurately presents Senator Peter Welch's concerns about the impact of tariffs on Vermont's tourism industry, supported by direct quotes and examples from local business owners. However, certain claims, such as the extent of the price increases and the decrease in Canadian visitors, are not directly substantiated with empirical data within the article. The story accurately reflects the sentiments expressed by the business owners and Senator Welch, but it lacks specific economic data or statistics to fully verify the claims about price increases and tourism impacts. The article could benefit from more detailed data or references to studies or reports that corroborate the claims made by the sources.

6
Balance

The article primarily presents the perspective of those opposing the tariffs, including Senator Welch and Vermont business owners. While it effectively highlights their concerns and the potential negative impacts of the tariffs, it does not offer a counterpoint or the perspective of those who might support the tariffs or believe in their potential benefits. The lack of representation from the Trump administration or economists who might provide a different viewpoint on the tariffs suggests a potential imbalance in the coverage. Including a broader range of perspectives would enhance the article's balance.

8
Clarity

The article is well-structured, with a clear narrative that effectively conveys the concerns of Vermont businesses regarding tariffs. The language is straightforward, and the use of direct quotes from stakeholders adds clarity and authenticity to the story. The article maintains a neutral tone, presenting the information in a factual manner without unnecessary embellishment. However, the inclusion of more data or expert analysis could help clarify the broader economic context of the tariffs, making the article more informative for readers unfamiliar with the issue.

8
Source quality

The article relies on credible sources, including direct quotes from Senator Welch and local business owners directly affected by the tariffs. These sources are relevant and provide firsthand accounts of the tariffs' impact, lending credibility to the narrative. However, the article could improve by incorporating insights from economic experts or official government data to supplement the anecdotal evidence presented. The use of a Fox News Digital reporter adds a layer of journalistic credibility, but the article would benefit from a wider array of authoritative sources.

7
Transparency

The article is transparent in its presentation of Senator Welch's views and the concerns of Vermont business owners. It clearly attributes information to specific individuals and provides context for their statements. However, the article does not disclose the methodology behind the statements about economic impacts, such as how price increases were calculated or the basis for the claims about decreased tourism. Greater transparency regarding the sources of these claims or any data supporting them would enhance the article's credibility and reader trust.

Sources

  1. https://www.welch.senate.gov/welch-holds-business-roundtable-on-tariff-chaos/
  2. https://www.welch.senate.gov/vermont-businesses-talk-tariffs-and-trumps-trade-war-at-welchs-roundtable/
  3. https://www.welch.senate.gov/as-tariffs-are-hurting-vermonts-outdoor-and-tourism-economy-welch-convenes-discussion-on-impact-of-trumps-trade-war-in-stowe/
  4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpdwseItxbo
  5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h3NygnqkhTU