RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- U.S. Senator Tim Kaine visited Reservoir Distillery in Richmond today to address the impact of former President Donald Trump’s tariffs on alcohol imports from Canada. Kaine's visit comes amid rising concerns over international trade tensions, as the European Union conside rs imposing a 50% tariff on American whiskey. In response, Trump has threatened a 200% tariff on all beers, wines and spirits imported from the EU’s 27 member nations. Kaine is advocating for the reversal of Trump-era tariffs on Canadian goods, emphasizing their negative impact on local businesses. "It's insulting to have an ally putting tariffs on them, this emergency rationale," Kaine said. "There's not an emergency with Canada, there's not an emergency with our allies, there's not an emergency with Europe, we're allies. Do we have different points of view? Sure, but we can negotiate without going to this extreme and branding them an adversary." Virginia distilleries, including Reservoir Distillery, rely on imported alcohol and international trade to sustain their businesses. Last month, the U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on all Canadian goods, despite Canada being one of America’s top trading partners. “For many small businesses, this is a really key part of their business,” Kaine said. David Cuttino, founder of Reservoir Distillery, expressed concerns over the economic impact of the tariffs, urging congressional action. “We need Congress to step up and take control of this,” Cuttino said. “We’re happy Kaine is presenting this bill to try and slow things down.” Earlier this month, Kaine introduced legislation aimed at reversing the tariffs on Canadian goods. The bill holds privileged status, meaning the Senate is required to vote on it soon. Kaine anticipates a tight vote but remains hopeful, noting that even companies that typically support tariffs are backing his proposal. “There’s going to be some drama—who will vote yes and who will vote no?" Kaine said. "Will the president take some action before the vote to shift the terms of the debate?” Republican Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01), who supports maintaining the tariffs, defended the policy in a statement to 8News: The administration is leveraging every available tool to combat the flow of fentanyl into our country. These tariffs are a clear message to China, Mexico, and Canada: they must uphold their commitments to stop the influx of these deadly drugs. The previous administration allowed Mexico and Canada to eat our lunch on trade. These tariffs will also support American businesses and manufacturing. This is long-term strategy that will boost revenue for businesses here at home, stimulate investment in American factories, secure our domestic supply chain, and increase jobs for Americans – in turn, it will strengthen our economy. I'm also encouraged by the recent drop in energy prices, a direct result of the administration's push for increased domestic energy production, making it easier for Americans to fill up their gas tank and pay their utility bills. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) Kaine’s legislation is set to go to the Senate floor for a vote on Tuesday, April 2. ...read more read less