WASHINGTON — Actor Jon Voight and producer Steven Paul have presented a detailed proposal to former President Donald Trump aimed at revitalizing the U.S. entertainment industry.
The plan includes federal tax incentives for production, support for theaters and studios, international co-production agreements, job training, and limited tariffs. It also suggests tax reforms to encourage domestic filming.
Voight, one of Trump’s “special ambassadors” on Hollywood issues along with Sylvester Stallone and Mel Gibson, met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago over the weekend alongside SP Media Group/Atlas Comics President Scott Karol.
Following the meeting, Trump announced plans for a 100% tariff on foreign-made films, calling it a national security measure. However, the White House later clarified that no decisions have been finalized and further consultations are expected.
In a video message, Voight said the entertainment industry had “suffered greatly,” with jobs lost due to productions moving overseas. He called for tax provisions to support domestic production and theaters, and praised Trump as a “great leader” who would help restore the industry.
Hollywood unions responded cautiously. IATSE and SAG-AFTRA acknowledged the threat of foreign competition but stopped short of supporting tariffs. IATSE President Matthew Loeb backed tax incentives but warned against harming Canadian workers or the broader industry.
Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) is working on federal legislation to offer competitive film incentives. He said tariffs could be harmful and pledged to work with the administration on a balanced solution.
The Motion Picture Association has not yet issued a response.
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