As the 119th U.S. Congress convenes in 2025, the Congressional French Caucus continues to play a pivotal role in fostering strong diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between the United States and France.
This bicameral, bipartisan group of lawmakers is dedicated to strengthening cooperation in key areas such as trade, security, innovation, and cultural exchange.
Congressional French Caucus Founding and Leadership
The Congressional French Caucus is a bipartisan group committed to maintaining and expanding the long-standing partnership between the two nations.
A combined initiative of the French Embassy and the leadership of Congress, the Congressional French Caucus was founded in 2003 to address issues during a bumpy time of relations between the two countries.
Currently co-chaired by Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Christopher Coons (D-DE) and Representatives William R. Keating (D-MA), Robert E. Latta (R-OH), Dina Titus (D-NV), and Joe Wilson (R-SC), the caucus serves as a bridge for discussions on legislative issues that impact both countries.
Previous iterations of the caucus have facilitated collaboration on defense cooperation, climate initiatives, and commercial partnerships, underscoring the deep historical and economic connections between France and the United States.
Economic and Trade Considerations: The Impact of Tariffs and Regulations
As France and the U.S. continue to strengthen their economic relationship, policies on tariffs and trade regulations remain a critical focus for the Congressional French Caucus.
France is the United States’ third-largest trading partner within the European Union, with bilateral trade surpassing $80 billion in goods and services annually. However, trade tensions – particularly regarding digital services taxes, aerospace subsidies, and environmental regulations – have sometimes created friction between the two allies.
With a new presidential administration shaping U.S. economic policy, the caucus will likely play an instrumental role in addressing:
- Potential Tariff Adjustments: The past decade has seen disputes over tariffs on French wine, cheese, and luxury goods in response to France’s digital services tax. The caucus could advocate for more balanced trade policies that avoid retaliatory measures while ensuring fair competition.
- Green Industrial Policy Alignment: France’s ambitious environmental policies, including its push for sustainable building materials and energy efficiency, may intersect with U.S. climate legislation. Coordination in this area could create new business opportunities while preventing regulatory conflicts.
- Innovation and Technology Cooperation: With France emerging as a leader in AI, biotechnology, and sustainable materials, the caucus could promote policies encouraging transatlantic collaboration in research and development.
A Shared Vision for the Future
French Ambassadors to the United States have consistently emphasized the importance of the caucus in strengthening diplomatic and economic relations. Speaking at a previous gathering of the French Caucus, Former French Ambassador to the United States Philippe Étienne noted:
“The relationship between France and the United States is rooted in shared values and a common vision for democracy, innovation, and economic prosperity. The Congressional French Caucus plays a vital role in ensuring this partnership continues to thrive.”
With the 119th Congress underway, the Congressional French Caucus is poised to be a key player in shaping the future of Franco-American relations.
Whether addressing trade policy, technological collaboration, or cultural diplomacy, this bipartisan group remains committed to reinforcing the historic and dynamic partnership between the two nations.