It's a lot easier to point at the elites, big corporations, China, corrupt politicians, etc., etc. than to make a personal sacrifice and spend a little more.
Economic self interest in action.
I’ve cut my spending way down, try to buy only necessities. That means if the Mexican extension cord is $18, and the Chinese is $10, I can afford the Mexican.
I recently assembled a table for someone, the brand was “American Classics” or the like. Made in China, cost $300. Veneer, particle board.
If I need a table, I’ll buy an old solid wood American table off Craigslist and I will wait a year for the right one.
Sometimes there aren’t options. You’re not going to ask if the sterile surgery pack is made in China.
Sometimes we’re talking about thousands of dollars instead of a few, and it would be harder or impossible to sacrifice.
The thing that makes the biggest difference for me is buying used. Forget the Joneses. Save the money. And make your choices.