Trump is demanding equality for all nations, including the US.
Rep. Warren Davidson (R-Ohio) strongly supported President Trump’s recent threat to place a 200% tariff on Champagne, wine, and other alcoholic beverages imported from the European Union (EU) if the EU does not eliminate its tariff on U.S. whiskey.
Davidson, speaking on NewsNation’s The Hill, expressed his full endorsement of Trump’s stance, emphasizing that the president is taking a tough, proactive approach that resonates with Ohioans. “People in Ohio love Donald Trump, and his message is spot on for our state,” Davidson remarked.
As a former manufacturer before entering Congress, Davidson pointed out the imbalance in global trade, which has long hurt American industries, not just with China but with several countries around the world. He praised Trump for standing up to these unfair practices, saying, “Donald Trump is showing the world that if they want to impose tariffs on us, we will impose them right back.”
Davidson also highlighted the potential benefits of the tariff on Ohio’s thriving wine industry. Ohio produces over a million gallons of wine annually, and the proposed tariffs could help level the playing field. While the U.S. imports more French wine than it exports to France, Ohio produces a significant amount of bourbon and other goods that are popular in Europe. “The Europeans import a lot of bourbon and other products from the U.S., and this move is a clear message to them,” Davidson said. “Negotiate fairly with us, treat us as equals, and then let’s work together on dealing with challenges like China.”
Trump’s escalating trade conflict with the EU became more intense this week when his 25 percent tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Europe took effect. The EU has responded with its own tariffs, while China retaliated against the U.S. with tariffs on a wide range of American products.
Davidson remains hopeful that Trump’s tough stance will result in better trade agreements that benefit American workers and industries.