MOSINEE, Wis. (AP/TMJ4) — President Donald Trump is stepping up his rhetoric on cultural and economic issues, aiming to boost enthusiasm among rural Wisconsin voters.
He held a rally Thursday evening in Mosinee, in central Wisconsin, an area of the state that shifted dramatically toward Republicans in 2016.
He called for a statute to ban burning the American flag in protest — a freedom protected by the Supreme Court — and criticized sports players and leagues for allowing demonstrations against racial inequality.
President Trump arrives in Mosinee Wisconsin. Jumps right into attacking former Vice President Joe Biden on trade and China. Tells supporters “If we win - America wins.” pic.twitter.com/Ep1g9cCcFA
— Charles Benson (@CharlesBenson4) September 18, 2020
The president congratulated the Big Ten Conference for resuming the season, in particular UW-Madison athletic director Barry Alvarez.
Trump also focused on trade deals, especially with Canada, who he said was "ripping off" Wisconsin before the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement came into effect.
"Canada did it to them like everyone else. Raised tariffs. Tried to take over. Massive and horrible," Trump said, "Especially milks, products, small portion but that was it. We have a great deal and honored to have done it."
The president added that his administration helped Wisconsin timber companies using subsidies. "If Biden gets in - [he will] shut down Wisconsin timber production for environmental reasons," he said.
Trump continued, saying he has invested in military contracts in Wisconsin, citing that Fincantieri Marinette Marine was granted the first portion of a $5.5 billion contract to build 10 Navy missile frigates.
"Marinette. So that's a great company. Having a hard time. Building $6 billion-worth of ships. Beauties," Trump said.
The president did not go to any length regarding Kenosha, besides saying Gov. Tony Evers should have called in the Wisconsin National Guard earlier than he did.
