Things To Do In SW Florida

By ALEXA ST. JOHN

DETROIT (AP) — President Donald Trump’s tariff blitz has sent shock waves throughout every aspect of the global economy, including the auto sector, where multi-billion-dollar plans to electrify in the United States are especially at risk.

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Here’s what consumers should know about the impact of tariffs on electric vehicles.

Where does EV adoption stand in the U.S.?

EVs accounted for about 8% of new car sales in the U.S. in 2024, according to Motorintelligence.com.

Some of those sales can be attributed to expanded tax credits for EV purchases, a Biden-era policy that spurred car buyer interest. read more

By CHRISTOPHER RUGABER, AP Economics Writer

ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — The Trump administration’s expansive new tariffs will likely lead to higher inflation and slower growth, Fed Chair Jerome Powell said Friday.

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  US added 228,000 jobs in March as economy showed strength in buildup to Trump trade wars

Powell said that the tariffs, and their likely impacts on the economy and inflation, are “significantly larger than expected.” He also said that the import taxes are “highly likely” to lead to “at least a temporary rise in inflation,” but added that “it is also possible that the effects could be more persistent.” read more

By WYATTE GRANTHAM-PHILIPS and CORA LEWIS

NEW YORK (AP) — President Donald Trump has unveiled his latest tariffs, and they could have significant implications for your wallet.

Trump’s sweeping new tariffs, on top of previous levies and retaliation worldwide, are expected to increase prices for everyday items. The trade wars have already roiled financial markets and plunged businesses into uncertainty — all while economists warn of potentially weakened economic growth and heightened inequality.

Which impacts will be felt by consumers and workers first? And what can households do in the face of so much uncertainty? Here’s what you need to know:

What are tariffs and how will they affect me?

Tariffs are taxes on goods imported from other countries. Companies buying foreign products pay the tariffs imposed on them — and, as a result, face higher costs that are typically passed on to customers.

Trump has argued tariffs will protect U.S. industries from unfair foreign competition and raise money for the federal government. But since so much of what we buy today relies on a global supply chain, steeper tariffs mean you’ll likely see more expensive prices from the grocery aisle to your next car repair. read more

Brightline, the higher speed rail line serving South and Central Florida, made good on its promise Friday to create a new rider loyalty program after pulling the plug on a once popular menu of discount commuter passes last year.

“Our guests have always been at the center of everything we do, and Brightline Rewards is the next step in recognizing their loyalty,” said Patrick Goddard, chief executive officer of Brightline Florida. “This program rewards all members with valuable perks and an even more personalized travel experience. It’s not just about earning points, it’s about deepening the connection with our guests as we continue to grow.”

The company unveiled the program Friday morning with the help of South and Central Florida tourism officials at its showcase MiamiCentral station in downtown Miami.

Management, according to a February financial report, estimates the program “will help us generate an incremtnal 15,000 riders per month.” In February, the company said its trains carried more than 247,000 riders for the month, a year-over-year increase of 28%. read more