2 Senate Republicans urge Trump to take EU tariff deal

A pair of Senate Republicans on Monday urged President Trump to accept the European Union’s offer of “zero-for-zero tariffs” on cars and industrial goods amid the administration’s growing trade wars.

“Let’s take that deal!” Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) wrote on the social platform X from his personal account.

“Much to gain,” Lee added.

Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) chimed in, writing in response, “Totally agree with @BasedMikeLee.”

“At some point, you have to take YES for an answer,” Johnson wrote.

The senators were responding to a clip of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, saying at a press conference on Monday, “We stand ready to negotiate with the United States.”  

“We have offered zero-for-zero tariffs for industrial goods — as we have successfully done with many other trading partners — because Europe is always ready for a good deal, so we keep it on the table,” she added.

Von der Leyen stressed, however, that the EU is readying countermeasures in response to Trump’s new sweeping tariffs, including 20 percent on imported goods from the EU. Trump’s 10 percent baseline tariff took effect Saturday, and the individualized tariffs will take effect Wednesday.

Trump previously announced tariffs on aluminum and steel and on foreign car imports.

“We are also prepared to respond through countermeasures and defend our interests,” von der Leyen added. “And in addition, we will also protect ourselves against indirect effects through trade diversion.”

The president and White House officials have been defending the tariff plan, which was announced last week and sparked recession fears and a stock market plummet. Officials have not made clear whether the White House is open to negotiating the tariffs.

Trump said Sunday he was elected because of the tariffs, telling reporters they will make the U.S. $1 trillion by next year.