Missouri Congressman Jason Smith, the Republican chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, claims that his constituents are in favor of President Trump’s efforts to balance international markets with tariffs, even if the positive outcomes take time to manifest.

“I represent one of the nation’s poorest congressional districts,” Smith mentioned on “On Balance” on Wednesday, following Trump’s announcement of new tariff plans against various countries.

“From what I gather from my farmers — with agriculture being the top industry in my area — is that we’re prepared to endure short-term hardships for eventual long-term benefits,” Smith explained.

He said his congressional district is at a competitive disadvantage because of tariffs on U.S. products. Smith said Japan, for example, slaps a 700% tariff on rice.

“We have to open up those markets,” the congressman said. “We grow rice in the bootheel of Missouri. We want to be able to sell our rice everywhere. But whenever a country who’s supposed to be a friend charges a 700% tariff, that’s not acceptable.”