Lankford discusses economic concerns, foreign policy, and political division

On this version of the “Sizzling Seat,” political analyst Scott Mitchell and Sen. James Lankford focus on financial issues, overseas coverage and extra.

Oklahomans Categorical Financial Issues Amid Tariff Uncertainty

Sen. James Lankford mentioned Oklahomans are more and more involved in regards to the economic system, significantly tariffs and commerce insurance policies.

“There’s loads of uncertainty on tariff points,” Lankford mentioned. “They marvel, is that this going to boost costs once more?”

He mentioned that President Donald Trump is a negotiator and is leveraging tariffs to push for home manufacturing and commerce benefits.

“The President additionally thinks individuals want to maneuver manufacturing right here round us, shopping for merchandise abroad. In case you promote most of it right here, why aren’t you truly making it right here?” mentioned Lankford. “And so the way in which that he can do that’s to have the ability to actually pressure extra individuals to have the ability to come right here, to have the ability to make it.”

Ukraine Battle and NATO’s Position in World Safety

Lankford addressed issues over Russia’s extended struggle in Ukraine, saying Vladimir Putin is delaying negotiations to realize strategic benefits.

“He desires to regulate as a lot as he probably can earlier than closing negotiations,” mentioned Lankford.

Lankford reiterated NATO’s significance however emphasised the necessity for member nations to fulfill their protection obligations.

“The president is correct to say, ‘Hey, do not simply wait on America to return defend you. You practice your individuals on learn how to defend your individual territory,'” Lankford mentioned.

Relating to Ukraine’s NATO membership, he clarified that discussions can not occur whereas the nation stays at struggle.

“Actually within the NATO Constitution, we don’t speak about NATO membership whereas a rustic is at struggle. So that’s actually prohibited to have the ability to truly speak about Ukraine becoming a member of in with NATO whereas they’re nonetheless at struggle,” mentioned Lankford.

Tax Coverage and Legislative Priorities

Lankford confused the significance of stopping tax will increase as Congress negotiates the “Large Stunning Invoice.”

“Each single tax bracket went down in 2017,” he mentioned. “If we enable this to run out, as my Democrat colleagues need, each single tax bracket goes up.”

He additionally highlighted provisions for small companies and nonprofits, aiming to stabilize the tax code and guarantee donors profit from charitable contributions.

Medicaid Reform and Waste Discount

Sen. Lankford dismissed rumors of Social Safety cuts and mentioned the main target is on lowering waste and fraud in Medicaid and Medicare.

“Nobody is speaking about lowering advantages,” he mentioned. “However the Congressional Finances Workplace and GAO, which is the Authorities Accountability Workplace, they’re the surface auditor on every thing. They’ve recognized about $50 billion of what they name improper funds.”

Lankford additionally advocated for work necessities for wholesome, working-age Medicaid recipients with no dependents.

“When you’re working, lots of these people work for some time, then they begin getting insurance coverage by way of their employer,” mentioned Lankford. “That reduces the burden to the American taxpayer.”

Inflation and Power Coverage Challenges

Lankford acknowledged issues over rising prices, significantly in power and agriculture.

Lankford mentioned costs sometimes don’t go down—simply the speed of enhance slows.

He additionally pointed to avian flu as a significant factor driving up egg costs.

“We actually have thousands and thousands and thousands and thousands of chickens being put down as a result of one fowl within the flock will get avian flu and it is terminal to all of them,” he mentioned. “If we won’t get on high of this world epidemic of avian flu, this does not get higher.”

Allowing Reform and Power Manufacturing

Lankford mentioned regulatory reform is critical to enhance power infrastructure and decrease prices.

He additionally criticized tax hikes on power corporations enacted in 2021, saying they drive up prices for shoppers.

Bridging Political Divides

Lankford spoke about his upcoming e book, “Turnaround: America’s Revival,” which addresses political polarization.

“Individuals take a look at Washington, D.C., they usually say it is a divisive, offended place. And I smile at them and say, Hey, Washington, DC is definitely a mirror to the nation. We’re a consultant Republic,” he mentioned.

He urged Individuals to deal with fostering respectful dialogue.

“Turning across the nation is not only a vote. It is a resolution every of us make, and our households make, on what we will be, who we will be. And if it is darkish in a single place, you are taking mild to the darkness,” he mentioned.