SE Kansas City News

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, a U.S. Congressman representing Missouri’s 5th district since 2005, has recently posted a series of statements on social media criticizing President Trump’s economic policies, particularly the administration's tariffs and recent legislation.

On August 11, 2025, Cleaver wrote, "The president promised he would lower costs for hardworking families on 'Day One.' Instead, his tariff taxes are driving up prices on everything from groceries and clothes to back-to-school supplies."

Continuing his criticism the following day, Cleaver stated in an August 12 post: "President Trump’s reckless tariff taxes continue to push up prices for American consumers. It’s hurting hardworking families, American workers, and local small businesses across the country. At any moment, House Republicans could put an end to this harm."

Later that same day, Cleaver commented on a recent legislative development: "President Trump’s Big Ugly Bill, passed with the support of nearly every Republican in Congress, is the largest transfer of wealth from the working class to the wealthy in American history. Ripping healthcare and food assistance from families while funding tax breaks for the..."

Emanuel Cleaver was born in Waxahachie, Texas in 1944 and currently resides in Kansas City. He graduated from Prairie View A&M University with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1972. Before being elected to Congress in 2005—succeeding Karen McCarthy—Cleaver built a long-standing career focused on public service.

Cleaver's recent remarks reflect ongoing debate within Congress regarding tariffs and their impact on consumer prices as well as broader concerns about economic policy decisions affecting working-class Americans.