President Donald Trump’s decision to introduce new tariffs has sent ripples through the GOP, sparking unrest even among his Republican allies. With a sweeping 10% standard tariff on imports and higher duties for specific nations, key Republican lawmakers are advocating for a change. The legislation proposed by Senators Chuck Grassley and Maria Cantwell could mark a pivotal shift in tariff policy.
Legislative Pushback Intensifies
Senators Grassley and Cantwell lead the charge with their bipartisan bill, seeking to reinstitute congressional control over tariffs. Their bill is gaining potential support from GOP Senator Thom Tillis, reflecting a growing desire for oversight.
Dear MAGA –
Every Republican in the Senate & most in the House disagree w Trump about the tariffs.
Why didn't they tell you? They only want power & your money. Most are gaming the stock market while prices will rise & layoffs occur
Rubio, Cruz, Ernst, Thune, Grassley … pic.twitter.com/xbdqfOYI31
— RiotWomenn (@riotwomennn) April 3, 2025
The reaction to Trump’s tariffs was swift, with notable declines in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq indices. Despite these alarming economic indicators, Speaker Mike Johnson has stopped similar votes in the House, which could hinder legislative progress.
Economic Concerns Take Center Stage
Amid these developments, Senator Tillis and former Senate leader McConnell have voiced concerns about the economic impact on agriculture and manufacturing. Tillis emphasized the looming threat to American farmers already on the brink of financial ruin.
Republicans play powerless as Trump tariff fears sweep across the globe
While GOP lawmakers could stop the presidential levies, they made clear they would not do so anytime soon.
https://t.co/idWEtOJRrv— Karol Cummins – New Acct (@karolcummins) April 4, 2025
Adding to the brewing storm is former Vice President Mike Pence’s stark criticism, labeling the tariffs as the most significant peacetime tax hike in U.S. history. Trump, however, remains firm, defending his decision on Truth Social, insisting the tariffs will bolster the economy.
Future of Tariff Policy Uncertain
Despite the Republican majority in Congress, altering Trump’s tariff policy requires bipartisan support. This uncertain legislative future leaves the question of whether the proposed bill will succeed in reinstituting congressional oversight.
“Anyone who says there may be a little bit of pain before we get things right needs to talk to my farmers who are one crop away from bankruptcy. They don’t have time. So we’ve got to be crisp on this implementation. Otherwise, we could do irreparable damage to farmers.” – Senator Tillis.
Grassroots Republican support may be crucial in navigating this turbulent period as America faces an unpredictable economic landscape. Whether this momentum can be sustained long enough to overrule Trump’s tariffs remains to be seen.
Sources:
https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-faces-growing-republican-pushback-over-tariffs-2055261
