Lake County Gazette

Jay Swidler, chairman of Vernon Township Republicans, said that President Trump's America First trade agenda has resulted in a landmark U.S.-U.K. deal, reasserting American economic leadership on the global stage. Swidler made his statement to the Lake County Gazette.

"Donald Trump's trade strategy puts American workers and manufacturers first, focusing on outcomes that directly benefit the U.S. economy," said Swidler. "His "America First" vision has driven firm negotiations with trusted allies like the United Kingdom to create fairer, modern trade terms. These efforts have now culminated in a groundbreaking U.S.-U.K. trade deal that expands access for American goods and eliminates unnecessary barriers. It signals a new era of economic diplomacy where American interests take the lead."

According to Politico, the announcement of a major trade deal with the U.K. coincided with the 80th anniversary of VE Day, following months of negotiations. The agreement lowers U.S. tariffs on British autos, steel, and aluminum while maintaining a 10 percent baseline tariff on most goods. The U.K. gained expanded access for farmers and will import U.S. beef under strict quality terms. Ethanol tariffs were removed, and Britain committed to purchasing $10 billion in Boeing aircraft. The deal is the first under Trump’s temporary tariff pause and is seen as a political and economic win for both Trump and Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

In an announcement, President Trump said, "The deal includes billions of dollars of increased market access for American exports, especially in agriculture, dramatically increasing access for American beef, ethanol, and virtually all of the products produced by our great farmers. The UK will reduce or eliminate numerous non-tariff barriers that unfairly discriminated against American products. This is now turning out to be, really, a great deal for both countries."

Swidler was first elected to the role of Chairman of the Vernon Township Republicans in 2024. According to the organization’s website, he is "focused on boosting Republican voter turnout, growing the Party’s membership, and communicating the Party’s positions on issues that matter to Vernon Township voters."