On April 30, 2025, the Senate voted on a resolution aimed at nullifying President Donald Trump’s tariffs introduced on April 2. The resolution faced a tie vote of 49-49, resulting in its failure.
• Trump suspended most of the reciprocal tariffs for 90 days, except for China. However, a 10% tariff on several countries remains due to the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act that allows the president to impose tariffs for national security.
• This resolution was supported by Democrats and GOP Senator Rand Paul but faced a veto threat from the White House, which argued it would undermine efforts to address national security risks stemming from a $1. 2 trillion trade deficit.
• The administration claimed that the trade deficit harms the U. S. industrial base, supresses wages, and negatively impacts communities.
• The Senate had previously passed a resolution to cancel tariffs on Canada, with bipartisan support. However, the House is not expected to act on the current resolution.
• Trump criticized the resolution, accusing its sponsors of weakening Republicans and benefiting Democrats and drug cartels.
• Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed that many Republicans are supportive of the ongoing trade negotiations and want to allow the administration more time to conclude deals.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson acknowledged that while Trump deserves leeway regarding tariffs, Congress could intervene if necessary.
The Senate's failure to pass the resolution reflects ongoing divisions regarding trade policy and the influence of Trump’s tariffs on the U. S. economy and national security.
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