President Donald Trump has urged for bipartisan tax incentives to support the domestic TV and movie industry. This sector has seen a major portion of its business move overseas in recent years. Trump announced on Truth Social that meetings with leaders from both parties are being organized to address this issue.
Trump emphasized the need for a bipartisan approach, pointing out the financial losses sustained, particularly in California and other predominantly Democratic states. He proposed that Republicans and Democrats work together to create legislation aimed at supporting the American entertainment industry.
Trump’s efforts to support Hollywood are partially influenced by actor Jon Voight. Voight has been a significant influence on Trump’s policy towards the entertainment industry. In May 2025, Trump met with Voight prior to suggesting tariffs on films produced abroad. Voight was not available for comment at the time of the report.
Trump’s call for action received support from some Democrats, a group usually critical of his administration. Senator Adam Schiff, D-Calif., expressed strong agreement with Trump, advocating for a federal film tax incentive to bring back jobs lost to other countries.
Representative Laura Friedman, D-Calif., backed the proposed measure, highlighting her prior discussions with industry stakeholders. She has pushed for a national film and television tax credit, arguing against other countries like Canada and the UK taking American jobs.
Friedman previously remarked that tariffs were not the solution, advocating instead for a tax credit to bolster the U.S. film industry.
The announcement also garnered positive reactions from the entertainment industry. Charles Rivkin, CEO of the Motion Picture Association, praised Trump’s support for tax incentives. Rivkin stated that American studios have historically produced popular films and series. A federal incentive could enhance production in local communities, boosting the economy across all states.
Although Trump did not specify financial details for the incentives, he predicted substantial economic benefits, saying that the incentives would eventually generate significant revenue for the Treasury.
