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Trade talks between the US and China hit another roadblock this week. Senator James Lankford says the 25% tariffs on Chinese goods are hurting American families and businesses. He argues these taxes punish US consumers more than China’s communist government.
Lankford wants China to come back to negotiate “fair trade deals that protect American jobs.” He claims tariffs should only be temporary tools, not permanent punishments. The Oklahoma senator says hardworking families pay the price every time prices go up at Walmart or the car dealership.
New bills proposed by Lankford aim to punch back at China’s growing influence. One would block Chinese military-linked schools from partnering with US colleges. Another stops federal money from going to universities that work with these groups. “We can’t let China teach our kids their propaganda,” Lankford warned.
The senator also wants to protect American farmland from foreign buyers. His SOIL Act would ban Chinese companies from buying US soil near military bases. “Our food supply is national security,” he said. Recent reports show China bought over 300,000 acres of US farmland last year.
President Trump defends the tariffs as necessary to bring manufacturing jobs home. Lankford agrees with the strategy but wants faster results. “Tariffs are like a messy kitchen remodel – painful now but worth it later,” he explained. The senator praised Trump for making Mexico and Canada renegotiate trade deals.
Some conservatives worry the tariffs backfire by raising prices. Lankford says temporary pain leads to long-term gain. He points to new car factories opening in southern states as proof it works. “America first means jobs first,” the senator told reporters.
Democrats argue the tariffs hurt farmers and small businesses. Lankford fired back, saying China steals US technology and floods markets with cheap goods. His plan requires full transparency when foreign companies buy American land. “We will not be bullied by communist dictators,” he vowed.
The trade battle shows no signs of ending. Lankford urges patience, claiming strong tactics will force China to play fair. “Freedom always beats tyranny in the end,” he said. With 2026 elections coming, many Republicans see standing up to China as key to winning votes.
