California and the Federal Government have had a tumultuous relationship in recent days. In response to the newly proposed economic tariffs that Trump’s administration has introduced, California has proposed a new plan in response.

The state of California hopes to separate itself from the new tariffs imposed by Trump and his administration.

Due to the state’s worry for its own economy, they want to put distance between themselves and the actions of the Federal Government.

According to California’s official website, the importance of the state’s economy is not to be underestimated.

Claiming that they are “Home to the most Fortune 500 companies, beating out Texas, Florida, and all other states. California remains No.1 in the nation for new business starts, No.1 for access to venture capital funding, No.1 for manufacturing, No.1 for high-tech, and No.1 for agriculture.”

The economy of California is one of the biggest and most diverse in the country.

But the tariffs threaten the economy of California. This has caused the California Government to look for partners outside of the U.S., which raises the question “why are these tariffs pushing California into a more autonomous economy?”

Well this is due to the state’s reliance on exporting and importing goods to and from the world.

The California Government states the importance of their foreign trade relationships since “California’s economy and workers rely heavily on trade with Mexico, Canada, and China. Over 40% of California imports come from these countries, totaling $203 billion of the more than $491 billion in goods imported by California in 2024.”

The numbers don’t lie, California’s economy is heavily reliant on trading partners from around the world.

This has sparked a discussion in the country due to California’s open opposition to the tariffs. Major detractors claimed it illegal and unconstitutional, some using the Logan act, a law that Congress describes as “illegal for U.S. citizens to engage in unauthorized diplomacy with foreign countries with intent to influence the measures or conduct of a foreign government or to defeat the measures of the United States.”

This tension does not seem to be descalating anytime soon.

Due to California’s continued push for more economic autonomy, and the U.S. pushing for a more centralized economy. The two are at odds with one another who will fold first the country or the state.

Only those at the top know all we can do for now is observe and stay vigilant because being informed is the best way to stay prepared.