From Headlines to Home Life: Why a Possible Military Move Matters to Families
When world leaders talk about war, it’s easy to feel like those conversations are far away—especially when you’re focused on grocery lists, vacation plans, or prepping your kids for summer programs. But some headlines deserve more than a glance. This week, one of them came directly from the White House.
Last Friday, June 20th, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced that President Trump will decide within two weeks whether to authorize broader military action in Iran. While that may seem like a high-level foreign policy issue, the implications are anything but distant. In fact, it could affect your household in measurable ways before summer ends.
What’s Happening and Why It Matters
Tensions between the U.S. and Iran are escalating. In the last week, the United States carried out targeted strikes on multiple Iranian nuclear sites, citing the collective defense of Israel. Now, the President is weighing whether to pursue more forceful action, a move that could shift global markets, alter energy costs, and strain international diplomacy even further.
For families and everyday citizens, this moment matters for a few key reasons:
Oil Prices May Spike. Conflict in the Middle East historically causes global oil prices to rise. That translates to higher gas prices, more expensive shipping, and a noticeable change in the cost of travel, food, and other goods. If you're planning a summer road trip or just trying to stretch your budget, these increases are more than headlines—they're real-life hurdles.
The Market May Respond. Financial uncertainty often accompanies geopolitical unrest. For individuals with retirement accounts, small business ventures, or student loans, market instability can create stress. Even if you’re not checking the stock market daily, what happens abroad often ripples into local banks, jobs, and spending habits.
Families Abroad May Be Affected. Many American families have loved ones living, working, or serving overseas. A shift in U.S. policy toward Iran may directly impact military families, international students, or those with cultural or business ties to the region.
Diplomatic Reputation Has Domestic Effects. When the U.S. is perceived as isolated or inconsistent on the world stage, it doesn’t just affect foreign relations—it can impact how American businesses, universities, and even travelers are treated abroad. This can also affect how young people are taught to view their role in civic life, service, or future leadership.
This Isn’t Just Foreign Policy. It’s Family Policy.
At PolishedTics®, we emphasize the truth that policy is not reserved for politicians—it’s a daily reality for families, communities, and classrooms. That’s why it’s important to pay attention not out of fear, but with purpose. We can teach our children how to lead with understanding by showing them how to watch the world with wisdom, not worry.
This is also a good time to have practical conversations at home:
What does it mean to live in a globally connected world?
How do we prepare—not panic—when the cost of living shifts?
Why does being informed matter, even when it feels overwhelming?
Perspective Over Panic
Although we can’t control international policy decisions, we can respond with perspective. Staying alert to what’s happening doesn’t mean we carry the weight of it all. It means we position ourselves to lead wisely—whether in a household, a classroom, or a community setting.
As citizens and consumers, we lead by staying educated, budgeting with foresight, and choosing conversation over confusion. And as we enter a season of watching and waiting, may we remain grounded in truth, faith, and preparedness.
Sources
White House Briefing Room, “Text of a Letter from the President to the Speaker of the House of Representatives,” June 21, 2025.
Wall Street Journal, “Trump’s Iran Decision to Come Within Two Weeks,” June 20, 2025.
Washington Post, “Trump Is Moving Toward War With Iran. The American People Must Say No,” June 20, 2025.
America the Beautiful: What the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Could Mean for Families
On May 20th, 2025, the federal government introduced the One Big Beautiful Bill Act—a sweeping proposal that combines tax reform, family-centered incentives, and federal spending reductions. While the Bill’s name and headlines may catch attention, the practical question many are asking is:
How might this impact everyday families— especially generations to come?
Here’s a clear breakdown of what the Bill includes, what it could change, and what families may want to consider—whether raising young children, supporting aging parents, or planning for retirement.
What the Bill includes
1. Tax Relief and Family Incentives
Reduces and simplifies federal tax brackets
Expands deductions for households with dependents
Proposes “baby bonuses”—one-time direct payments to support families welcoming a new child
2. Support for Family-Owned Businesses
Expands and simplifies deductions for qualifying small and family-run businesses
3. Reductions in Federal Spending
Proposes cuts to long-term public programs, including:
Medicare
Medicaid
Housing and food assistance
What This Means for Households
Young Families
Child-based tax bonuses and simpler filing processes may provide short-term relief for growing households. However, reduced funding for federal programs could affect school meals, health clinics, and early childhood services.
Working Adults & Homemakers
Independent workers and family-run businesses may benefit from the streamlined tax deductions. However, some groups—such as homemakers hoping to return to the workforce—may still find themselves ineligible for retraining programs such as WIOA, which doesn’t currently include unpaid caregivers.
Seniors
Although the Bill proposes tax relief for retirees, proposed cuts to Medicare and Medicaid could have long-term implications for elder care. According to some reports, over 60% of nursing home residents rely on Medicaid as their primary source of funding. Changes to that funding structure may have ripple effects across states and local care systems.
Points Worth Watching
As this legislation moves forward, families may want to consider:
How will federal spending cuts affect elder care, housing, or healthcare access?
Will one-time bonuses or tax reductions balance out other cutbacks?
How can local and faith-based communities supplement future support gaps should a contingency plan not work?
Impact will vary by household and region, but staying informed and adequately preparing helps families plan with purpose.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduces bold, family-focused ideas—but also complex trade-offs. It's designed to support working households and encourage family growth, but some of its reductions in long-term public support raise questions for those already in caregiving roles or retirement planning stages.
Feel free to reach out if you need help creating a contingency plan for these changes as they continue to develop daily. Understanding how national policy affects daily life—at the dinner table, in elder care decisions, or on tax day—isn’t just good citizenship. It’s good stewardship.
References
Barron’s. (2025). Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” Would Cut Social Security and Medicare Taxes. https://www.barrons.com/articles/trump-bill-social-security-tax-e70d1658
Investopedia. (2024). Medicaid Cuts Would Be a Blow to Nursing Homes. https://www.investopedia.com/medicaid-cuts-would-be-a-blow-to-nursing-homes-11740108
Congress. (2025) H.R.1 - One Big Beautiful Bill Act. https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1
Fueling the Future: What This Week’s Deals Mean for Costs
This week, U.S. Ambassador Warren Stephens and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a new trade agreement. The deal removes tariffs on British steel, autos, and aluminum in exchange for more access to American products like beef and ethanol. But what stands out even more is the shift in energy policy—President Trump encouraged the U.K. to prioritize oil drilling in the North Sea over expanding wind energy projects.
While these trade deals might sound distant, involving the North Sea, this development is closer to home than many realize. These agreements directly impact what you pay for goods and how energy prices rise or fall. For example, a trade deal favoring steel or aluminum can lead to higher costs for building materials, gasoline for your car, home appliances, electronics, or even children’s school supplies. Meanwhile, decisions on energy can affect your electricity bill and gas prices during the approaching summer vacation season.
The decision to prioritize oil over wind energy also brings up a bigger question: Will we continue to rely on fossil fuels, or will countries shift toward more sustainable sources? Fossil fuels, like oil and natural gas, power the transportation we rely on, heat our homes, and generate the electricity we use every day. However, the continued use of these energy sources has major environmental implications, contributing to climate change and air pollution. Think about how gas prices spike during the summer or peak travel times. These price shifts are driven by decisions made at the global level, including those from oil-rich countries like Saudi Arabia. Recently, President Trump’s visit to the Middle East reiterated the importance of the U.S.-Saudi relationship in determining how much oil is available on the global market—and ultimately how much you pay at the pump.
At the same time, the question of whether we will continue to rely on fossil fuels or pivot to cleaner, renewable sources like wind and solar energy is becoming more urgent. While wind energy holds promise as a cleaner option, it competes with the vested interests of oil producers, both domestically and internationally. The push for oil drilling in the North Sea reflects broader geopolitical decisions that impact energy costs, job markets, and environmental policies for years to come. As countries around the world balance these competing interests, energy security, environmental sustainability, and economic growth will be key areas of focus.
From the price of groceries to how much you pay to heat your home, trade agreements and energy policies affect your day-to-day life more than you might think. Staying aware of these decisions helps you understand the changes in the world around you and the direct impact on your wallet and future.
References:
Trump and Starmer's Trade Agreement
Xi’s in, Shein, and Your Part in U.S. Trade Policy
Did you know that each time you click “checkout” on a site such as Temu or Shein, you're not just buying a cute accessory or kitchen gadget—you’re participating in global trade policy? This week, President Trump signed an executive order reducing tariffs on low-cost imports from China after reaching negotiations, potentially impacting prices, shipping speeds, and small business dynamics here in the US.
But what does this really mean for American families, entrepreneurs, and consumers trying to make every dollar count (which is why many shop at those sites in the first place)?
The executive order drastically decreases the “de minimis” tariff on Chinese imports from 120% to 54% for parcels valued under $800. This tariff reduction largely benefits e-commerce platforms that ship inexpensive goods directly to U.S. consumers—no middlemen, no storefronts, just fast and low-cost delivery.
This policy is part of a broader, 90-day U.S.-China trade “cooling period,” where tariffs across the board were cut from 145% to 30%. While framed as a win for consumers, the implications go far deeper.
Why It Matters & The Household Impact
1. Lower Prices—For Now
Reduced tariffs mean cheaper costs at the register for certain goods. If you're a parent planning for summer break, or a small business buying bulk supplies online, you may see modest savings.
2. A Tipping Point for Local Business
However, domestic producers and small retailers may struggle to compete. Many don’t benefit from the same international shipping loopholes, leaving American-made products at a disadvantage which the consumers will feel in the end.
3. Short-Term Relief, Long-Term Questions
This order only lasts 90 days. If tensions rise again, tariffs could return—and prices could spike when it is time for back-to-school shopping. Budget-conscious families should enjoy the savings while they last, but plan with caution.
What to Watch Next
Keep an eye on how this policy evolves:
Will the tariff reduction become permanent?
Will local businesses push back?
What might this mean for the future of U.S.-China trade?
Stay tuned for updates—because when trade policy shifts, so do our pantries, our budgets, and our priorities.
Fresh or Far-Fetched? Understanding Tariffs and Imported Goods
We all want the best for our families—clean meals, nourishing produce, and smart shopping. However, “fresh” at the grocery store doesn’t always mean “close to home.” In fact, the favorite foods of many families may have traveled more miles than our Fords and GMCs have before arriving into carts.
While only 15% of America’s overall food supply is imported, critical categories of fresh food are especially dependent on international sources:
32% of fresh vegetables
55% of fresh fruit
94% of seafood
While these imports allow for variety and year-round access, they also make our families vulnerable to tariffs and supply chain disruptions—costs that show up right on the receipt.
What Are Tariffs—and Why Should Families Care?
A tariff is a tax placed on imported goods. While tariffs are sometimes designed to protect U.S. farmers and industries, they can also lead to higher prices for consumers.
According to one analysis by the Consumer Federation of America conducted in 2023, tariffs on imported food products have cost American households nearly $16 billion in recent years. That means households are paying more for groceries and home goods, without even realizing why.
Even with supportive trade frameworks like the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA)—which helps reduce tariffs on many agricultural goods—market instability and foreign policy shifts can still raise prices at home.
Since PolishedTics® was created to equip everyday families with the tools to understand policies and find success in their impacts, here are some ways how you can protect your budget while supporting policies that strengthen your region:
1. Shop Local and Regional
Buying from local farms doesn’t just taste better—it also bypasses tariffs and long-haul transport fees. Find farmers markets near you using the USDA’s National Farmers Market Directory. Also visit LocalHarvest.org to connect with family farms and co-ops near you.
2. Choose U.S-sourced Seafood
Domestic seafood isn’t just more fresh—it’s more transparent and often more sustainable. States like Alaska, Louisiana, California, Maine, and Florida are major fisheries. Even inland states like Tennessee offer freshwater options.
Explore national seafood trends and sustainability efforts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) if you’re interested in learning how to read seafood labels use the FDA’s Country of Origin Labeling info.
3. Become Policy-Aware at Home
Whether you’re preparing school lunches or budgeting for summer meals, understanding trade policy helps you lead from the kitchen. Reach out to this site if you have unique questions specific to your family.
Policy isn’t just something that happens in D.C.—it’s something that plays out in grocery aisles, kitchens, and school cafeterias every single day. It takes a collective effort of communities at all levels to influence your household, your habits, or your hometown. – not just policymakers.
When families are informed, communities grow stronger. That’s the real fresh start.
References:
Consumer Federation of America. (2023). A Nearly $16 Billion Food Tax. Retrieved from: https://consumerfed.org/a-nearly-16-billion-food-tax/
U.S. Trade Representative. (n.d.). USMCA Fact Sheets: Modernizing NAFTA to Support Today’s Agriculture. Retrieved from: https://ustr.gov/.../modernizing-nafta-support-today%E2%80%99s-agriculture
NOAA Fisheries. (2023). Fisheries of the United States. Retrieved from: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/sustainable-fisheries/fisheries-united-states
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). (n.d.). Farmers Market Directory. Retrieved from: https://www.ams.usda.gov/local-food-directories/farmersmarkets
U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). (n.d.). Country of Origin Labeling. Retrieved from: https://www.fda.gov/food/food-labeling-nutrition/country-origin-labeling
LocalHarvest. (n.d.). Find Local Farms & CSAs. Retrieved from: https://www.localharvest.org/
Mother, May I?: Tariff-ic Shopping Alternatives
We have just entered into the month of May, and we are becoming more mindful of our shopping more than ever — or at least we should be doing so. As women we often learn how to balance the budget before we realize it. I recall being in the store as a child and asking my mother may “we” buy something that I really wanted without thought of where it was sourced. Now, the geopolitical changes we are experiencing allow us all a beautiful opportunity to relive such a relatable moment from a place of fun and intention (hear me out).
Many of the gifts we often buy, such as chocolates, coffee, and other affordable luxuries, have been impacted by tariffs implemented a few weeks ago. If we haven’t already realized a slight increase on the price of our favorite hosting must-haves or comforts, we are sure to see them soon.
Moreover, with Mother's Day spending projected to reach $34.1 billion in 2025, averaging $259.04 per person, consumers are definitely seeking meaningful gifts that offer both value and uniqueness. While the internet affords us the convenience of grabbing mom’s favorites off the web, why not broaden your reach and add value to mom, your local neighbors, and your community? Below, I’ve included five thoughtful gift basket ideas that replace tariff-affected imports with locally sourced alternatives — supporting regional businesses and providing moms with heartfelt, high-quality presents that are close to home and close to heart.
1. Imported Chocolates → Local Artisanal Sweets
Tariff Impact: Cocoa prices have surged due to global supply issues, affecting the cost of imported chocolates.
Local Alternative: Opt for confections from local chocolatiers or honey-based treats from regional apiaries.
2. European Wines → Regional Wines or Ciders
Tariff Impact: Imported wines, particularly from the European Union, are subject to increased tariffs, raising their retail prices.
Local Alternative: Explore wines from local vineyards such as Cypress Bend Vineyards in North Carolina, Tomasello Winery in South Jersey, or Sparkling Pointe Vineyards & Winery in New York. These family-owned and operated establishments offer a variety of wines that can add a personal touch to your Mother's Day basket.
3. Imported Tomato Sauces → Homemade Local Tomato Jam
Tariff Impact: Tariffs on imported tomatoes from countries like Mexico have led to higher prices for tomato-based products.
Local Alternative: Create a homemade tomato jam using fresh, locally grown tomatoes. Not only does this support local farmers and economies, but also adds a unique, personal element to your gift.
4. Imported Cheeses → Local Artisanal Cheese Boards
Tariff Impact: European cheeses face significant tariffs, increasing their cost to consumers.
Local Alternative: Assemble a cheeseboard featuring selections from local creameries; and even pair with regional crackers and fruits. This can serve as a delightful, personalized gift or an unforgettable family activity.
5. Imported Flowers → Locally Grown Blooms or Potted Plants
Tariff Impact: Imported flowers can be more expensive due to tariffs and shipping costs.
Local Alternative: Purchase flowers from local farmers' markets or nurseries. Alternatively, consider gifting a potted plant or herb, which offers longevity and supports local growers.
By choosing locally sourced alternatives, you not only create a thoughtful and personalized Mother's Day gift, but also support regional businesses and provide moms with heartfelt, high-quality presents that are close to home and close to heart.
References:
National Retail Federation. (2025, April 28). Mother’s Day Spending Expected to Reach $34.1 Billion. Retrieved from https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/mother-s-day-spending-expected-to-reach-34-1-billionLGR Magazine+11National Retail Federation | NRF+11National Retail Federation | NRF+11
MarketWatch. (2025). Hershey using 'every lever in the toolbox' to reduce impact of cocoa tariff. Retrieved from https://www.marketwatch.com/story/hershey-using-every-lever-in-the-toolbox-to-reduce-impact-of-cocoa-tariff-3da08b69
Reuters. (2025, April 14). US says most tomatoes imported from Mexico to face 21% duty from July 14. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/us-says-most-tomatoes-imported-mexico-face-21-duty-july-14-2025-04-14/