As the holiday season approaches, concerns are growing that President Trump’s unpredictable trade policies could disrupt Americans’ preparations for Christmas. The ongoing instability in stock and bond markets hasn’t done much to shake his supporters, but the uncertainty surrounding tariffs is causing anxiety among consumers.

With the President frequently changing tariff rates and exempting certain products from tariffs, people are unsure of how to plan for the holidays. Questions arise about whether it’s time to stock up on non-perishable goods, upgrade electronic devices or even buy a new car.

Beyond the economic implications, there’s another looming issue that could upend the holiday season. Despite accusations from some conservatives about a supposed “War on Christmas” perpetrated by liberals, the reality is that Americans of all backgrounds celebrate the holiday season with great fervor.

Statistics show a significant increase in holiday spending over the past two decades, with Americans spending an average of $1,000 per person. The bulk of this spending goes towards holiday gifts, with most purchases made online, especially on platforms like Amazon.

Unfortunately, the ongoing trade tensions with China, our major source of holiday-related goods, mean that Americans could face higher prices this Christmas. The uncertainty caused by the trade war is unsettling for consumers, especially with so many unknowns about the future economy.

If Trump’s contentious trade policies continue, the impact on Christmas shopping could be significant. Despite Americans’ ability to adapt to challenges, changes to holiday traditions and spending habits are something most people prefer to avoid.