America’s Pro-Business Posture Is Working, and the World Is Paying Attention

The clock is ticking, and this time, it's a wake-up call for America’s trading partners.

President Trump has made it clear: countries have until August 1st to reach fairer trade agreements with the United States, or face tariffs of up to 30%. The message is simple: if you want access to the American market, it’s time to play by the same rules.

This isn’t just a tough negotiation tactic. It’s a signal to American businesses that the U.S. is done putting them last. And for the first time in a long time, Washington is backing Main Street and corporate America with real leverage. AGIF Board Member Sam Kuebler joined the Sunday Report on Newsmax to discuss.

Leveling the Playing Field for American Industry

From manufacturing to agriculture to automotive, U.S. businesses have long been forced to compete on uneven ground—facing import-heavy trade deficits, foreign subsidies, and red tape abroad. European auto manufacturers, for example, export seven cars to the U.S. for every one American car sent back. That’s not trade; it’s dependence.

The current administration’s posture flips the script. By demanding reciprocal trade and threatening penalties for bad-faith actors, America is finally giving its businesses the backing they deserve.

As Kuebler, a former Capitol Hill legislative director, puts it: “August 1st is when we see who our true strategic partners are.” In other words, it’s a litmus test for whether the global economy values American innovation, or just exploits American access.

A Trade Strategy That’s Actually Delivering

Critics warned that tariffs would wreck the economy. Instead, the U.S. just posted its first monthly budget surplus in 10 years—$27 billion in June alone.

That surplus is the result of smart, pro-business governance: targeted tariffs that generate revenue, tax cuts that free up capital, and deregulation that empowers growth. The private sector has responded with resilience. Markets have stabilized. Job numbers are strong. And companies are beginning to see what’s possible when Washington works for them, not against them.

This is the business-friendly agenda in action. It’s not about protectionism. It’s about protecting the right to compete fairly—and ensuring the benefits of growth stay here at home.

A Signal to Business Leaders: This Is Your Moment

The administration’s trade strategy tells American companies: you don’t have to compete alone. You don’t have to accept deals that disadvantage your workers, your supply chains, or your pricing power.

The pro-business approach is paying off, with a surplus to prove it and momentum that can’t be denied.

At the American Growth and Innovation Forum, we believe strong companies build strong communities. That starts with a government that fights for fair markets, rewards innovation, and isn’t afraid to lead.

The rest of the world is watching. American business is winning. And this is just the beginning.