At Richfield Bowl in Flint, Michigan, the bowling alley is bustling with the sounds of rolling balls and crashing pins even before noon. The bowlers take their game seriously, whether it’s aiming for strikes, spares, or dealing with splits.

Scott Holmes expresses his support for President Donald Trump’s efforts to keep jobs in America instead of outsourcing overseas, sharing a personal story about his son losing his job due to outsourcing to Africa. On the other hand, his teammate Dick Hunt believes that the tariffs imposed by the president end up burdening the people financially.

CBC News visited Michigan to gauge public sentiment on the trade war between Canada and the U.S., which has significantly impacted the state’s economy as Canada is its largest export market. Tina Bentley, a supporter of the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement, praises Trump’s economic policies, emphasizing his dedication to the country. In contrast, Peggy Banks and Lisa McFadden express concerns about the increasing costs triggered by the tariffs.

Michigan, known for its auto industry, has been hit hard by the trade conflict. A recent study by the U.S. National Taxpayers Union Foundation revealed that Michigan households face the highest per-household tariff costs in the nation. With the upcoming U.S. Senate election, the trade war has become a pivotal issue for voters as both parties vie for control.

While some residents believe the tariffs will not influence their voting decisions, others like Joan Castor and Matt Zastrow have contrasting views. Castor remains critical of the tariffs, solidifying her decision not to vote Republican, whereas Zastrow supports Trump’s policies and would consider voting for the Republican candidate.

In the midst of political debates, industry leaders in the region are hesitant to engage in politics publicly, preferring clarity and stability in trade relations. Glenn Stevens Jr., the executive director of MichAuto at the Detroit Regional Chamber, emphasizes that businesses prioritize economic interests over political rhetoric, focusing on production, trade, and job creation.

The trade war’s impact on Michigan’s economy and its residents is evident, shaping perceptions and political preferences as the state navigates through these challenging times.