Share and Follow


() Missouri Congressman Jason Smith, the Republican chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, says his constituents support President Trump’s attempts to level global markets through tariffs, even if it takes awhile to reap the benefits.

“I represent one of the poorest congressional districts in the nation,” Smith told ‘s “On Balance” on Wednesday, after Trump announced his latest plans to tariff imports from several countries.

“What I hear from my farmers agriculture is the number one industry in my region is that we’re willing to have the short-term pain for the long-term gain,” Smith added.

He said his congressional district is at a competitive disadvantage because of tariffs on U.S. products. Smith said Japan, for example, slaps a 700% tariff on rice.

“We have to open up those markets,” the congressman said. “We grow rice in the bootheel of Missouri. We want to be able to sell our rice everywhere. But whenever a country who’s supposed to be a friend charges a 700% tariff, that’s not acceptable.”

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Florida AG issues subpoenas to trucking company that employed illegal immigrant charged in fatal crash

Industry Executive Warns: Foreign Firms Exploiting Trucking Industry with Unlicensed Drivers Endangering U.S. Roads

A trucking industry executive has voiced concerns over the increasing presence of…
Florida boater rescues two people from vessel engulfed in flames off coast

Florida Boater Heroically Rescues Two from Flaming Vessel Off Coast

A dramatic rescue unfolded off the Florida coast on Monday when a…
UChicago professor posts vile social media comment on Dick Cheney hours after his death

UChicago Professor Sparks Controversy with Social Media Post Following Dick Cheney’s Passing

A prominent professor from a leading university, recently involved in controversy, has…
Charlie Kirk's widow calls for cameras in courtroom at murder trial

Demand for Transparency: Widow of Charlie Kirk Urges Courtroom Cameras in High-Profile Murder Trial

Erika Kirk, the widow of the prominent conservative figure Charlie Kirk, is…
Texas leads in ICE arrests under Trump administration: Report

Texas Tops Nation in ICE Arrests During Trump Administration, New Report Reveals

In Dallas, recent figures highlight that immigration enforcement under the Trump administration…
Democratic 18th Congressional District candidate Amanda Edwards speaks during an election night watch party on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

Texas Showdown: Democrats Menefee and Edwards Head to Runoff in Pivotal U.S. House Race

HOUSTON (AP) — In a special election on Tuesday night, Democrats Christian…
Häagen-Dazs ice cream treat recalled in dozens of states

Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream Recall: Nationwide Alert Affects Multiple States

Häagen-Dazs ice cream bars are being recalled due to a risk of…
'Delusional' movie fans keep whining about the media reporting insanely low box office numbers

Movie Fans Frustrated by Media’s Low Box Office Reports

Throughout the year, a curious and collective frustration has emerged among some…