COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — A local card game company, Rookie Mage Games, has filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump, claiming that his trade war with China is severely impacting its business. The company, along with other gaming firms, argues that the tariffs on Chinese imports, which can reach as high as 145 percent, are a political maneuver for attention.
Jordan McLaughlin, the founder of Rookie Mage Games, said that China remains the most affordable and viable option for production, as options in the United States are limited and too expensive. McLaughlin started his company in 2019 with the game “Don’t Get Stabbed,” which evolved from a side project into his full-time job.
McLaughlin explained that he placed his last order when tariffs were at 20 percent, which was challenging but manageable. However, with the current rate at 145 percent, he fears that another order could drive him out of business.
“It makes me angry, honestly,” McLaughlin said. “I’ve worked really hard to get here. This year is one of those years where a lot of stuff is finally lining up. I’ve been talking to mass retailers, I’ve been talking to the biggest distributors in the industry, and now I’m in a position where they’re all interested, but I can’t guarantee inventory anymore.”
He added, “The next time I order, if that’s at 145% tariffs… I’m out of business.”
The lawsuit contends that President Trump did not have the authority to impose the tariffs in the manner he did. Meanwhile, McLaughlin is left waiting and worrying about the future of his business.
