Trump rallies bipartisan support for a federal film incentive while addressing urgent national issues.
On November 13, 2026, amidst a rare nationwide ground stop of all flights in the United States, former President Donald Trump made a strong appeal for Congress to pass a federal film and television tax incentive. This initiative, aimed at revitalising the American entertainment industry, has garnered bipartisan support, with Trump highlighting the involvement of both Republican and Democratic lawmakers.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump detailed the coalition backing the proposed 20% tax incentive, which includes notable figures such as Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Senator Tim Scott (R-SC). He expressed urgency in getting the Motion Picture, Television, and Entertainment Revitalization Act passed, stating, “Hollywood, and so many other places, have been virtually ‘emptied out’ by the Tax Incentives given by other countries.”
Trump’s comments came during a meeting with actor Jon Voight at the White House, where they discussed strategies to promote the film incentive. Voight, along with his team, urged Trump to push for the legislation during the current lame duck session of Congress. According to Steven Paul, a member of Voight’s team, Trump was attentive to their discussions while also managing updates on the flight disruptions and other national emergencies.
Concerns have been raised about the potential stalling of the legislation, particularly following the Democrats’ sweep of the midterms, which has shifted the focus of Congress to various priorities. Trump noted that the legislation could be attached to end-of-year funding bills, although there are fears this might merely delay action further.
Financial implications of the proposed tax incentive have also been a topic of discussion. The Joint Committee on Taxation has yet to provide a cost estimate, but the Cato Institute has projected costs between $33 billion and $49 billion. However, supporters argue that the economic benefits would far outweigh these costs, with Trump asserting that the incentives would bring back jobs and economic activity to the U.S.
Trump concluded his appeal by emphasising the importance of bipartisan cooperation to ensure the entertainment industry remains a vital part of the American economy, stating, “It can be done quickly, accurately, efficiently and, importantly, will benefit all of America. MAKE OUR ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY GREAT AGAIN!”
