Trump’s tariffs stand to tax the hell out of anyone looking to commemorate this Memorial Day weekend, setting up an expensive few months ahead for families.
According to experts, the total cost of a basket of Memorial Day barbecue staples is up by 3.41% compared to last year. Their analysis also found that the average price of hot dogs and soda skyrocketed 18.86% and 11.8%, respectively. This holiday season, chicken thighs will cost 3.09% more, while the price of baked beans rose by 4.55%. Mustard, ketchup, and relish prices are all higher than they were a year ago.
“Hot dogs won’t be the only thing grilled this weekend — so will the wallets of millions of Americans. Memorial Day traditions that celebrate the country shouldn’t be a luxury item, but in Trump’s economy, you’ll have to pay a patriot tax this weekend to honor fallen servicemembers,” said American Bridge 21st Century spokesperson Brandon Weathersby. “The high price of hosting a cookout is just the start. Families are bracing for a summer of rising costs on everyday essentials, and experts warn product shortages could make it even harder to get by.”
This Saturday will mark 45 days since Donald Trump’s Liberation Day pause, which walked back his original chaotic tariff policy, while leaving a massive 10% baseline tariff intact along with 25% tariffs on major trading partners Canada and Mexico.
Tariffs have already made mattresses, toys, strollers, and big-ticket purchases that many families need more expensive.
Last week, Walmart, the largest retailer in the country, called Trump’s tariffs “too high” and announced “higher tariffs will result in higher prices” at their stores beginning later this month. Athletic apparel giant Nike also announced it would raise prices starting next week.
An analysis from the Yale Budget Lab shows their chaotic policies will cost almost half a million American jobs and raise the cost of living for households by an average of $2,800, with the poorest Americans paying a disproportionate share of the costs.
Published: May 23, 2025 | Last Modified: May 27, 2025