Grassley, Cantwell Push Bill to Curb Trump’s Tariff Powers

Senators Chuck Grassley and Maria Cantwell have introduced bipartisan legislation requiring congressional approval for all new tariffs, aiming to check President Trump’s trade authority.

The bill comes as Trump rolls out sweeping tariffs on imports from China and Europe. Grassley, a Republican, seeks to restore Congress’s constitutional trade role.

Cantwell, a Democrat, supports the move to prevent economic disruption from unilateral actions. Together, they argue for balanced governance.

Trump’s team defends his tariff strategy as vital for American jobs and security. They say Congress moves too slowly to counter foreign threats.

The legislation would force the White House to justify tariffs to lawmakers first. It’s a direct response to Trump’s recent “Liberation Day” trade announcement.

Senate support is uncertain, with some GOP members backing Trump’s approach. Democrats largely favor the bill but face party-line hurdles.

Economists warn Trump’s tariffs could spike inflation and spark retaliation. Grassley and Cantwell say oversight would mitigate such risks.

Historical precedent shows Congress ceding trade power to presidents over decades. This bill aims to claw some back amid rising tensions.

Trump has called the measure a betrayal by his own party. He insists tariffs are his best tool to fix trade imbalances.

Business groups like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce endorse the legislation. They argue it protects industries from unpredictable policy shifts.

If passed, the law could reshape U.S. trade dynamics for years. It’s a rare bipartisan stand against executive overreach.

The senators plan to rally support before Trump’s tariffs take full effect. Their success hinges on bridging deep partisan divides.