Republican Senators Back Bill to Curb Trump Tariffs

Seven Republican senators, led by Chuck Grassley and Mitch McConnell, have endorsed a bipartisan bill to require congressional approval for President Trump’s steep tariffs on trading partners. The move signals rare GOP resistance to Trump’s trade agenda, which has rattled markets and allies alike since taking effect Saturday.

The Trade Review Act of 2025, introduced with Democrat Maria Cantwell, aims to rein in Trump’s unilateral tariff powers. It mandates a 60-day congressional vote on any new duties he imposes.

Grassley, a longtime advocate for legislative oversight, called the bill a return to constitutional balance. McConnell, once a free-trade champion, framed it as a check on economic disruption.

The Senate passed a separate measure last week to block tariffs on Canada, with four GOP votes in favor. That resolution, however, is expected to stall in the Republican-controlled House.

Trump’s tariffs, including a 10% baseline on all imports, have drawn ire from businesses facing higher costs. Senators say they’ve heard mounting complaints from constituents.

The White House has pushed back, with Trump calling the bill a “ploy” that undermines his trade strategy. He insists tariffs will force fairer deals and boost U.S. manufacturing.

Bipartisan support reflects unease with Trump’s approach, even among his party’s fiscal conservatives. Yet, passing the bill faces long odds without broader GOP backing.

Markets tanked after the tariffs hit, amplifying pressure on lawmakers to act swiftly. Economists predict inflation could rise if the policy persists unchecked.

Grassley and Cantwell argue Congress ceded too much trade authority to the executive in past decades. They see this as a chance to reclaim that role amid global backlash.

Trump’s allies, like Senator John Barrasso, defend his right to set trade policy independently. They warn that curbing him could weaken America’s leverage abroad.

The bill’s fate hinges on House Speaker Mike Johnson, who’s so far aligned with Trump’s agenda. A veto from Trump would also doom it unless Congress musters a rare override.

If successful, the legislation could reshape U.S. trade governance for years to come. For now, it’s a bold but uncertain stand against Trump’s tariff push.