The recent fallout from President Donald Trump's aggressive new tariffs has prompted a significant response from Congress. A growing number of Republicans are joining forces with Democrats to explore ways to limit Trump's tariff powers. This bipartisan interest comes after the GOP-led Senate expressed its discontent by voting to revoke Trump's tariffs on Canadian imports, signaling a shift in legislative dynamics.
Senators are now considering various mechanisms to overturn existing tariffs while simultaneously restricting the president's ability to impose new ones. Notably, Senator Chuck Grassley, a Republican from Iowa and a Trump ally, introduced the Trade Review Act of 2025 alongside Senator Maria Cantwell, a Democrat from Washington. This proposed legislation aims to reassert Congress's authority in trade policy, requiring the president to notify Congress of any new tariffs within 48 hours, including justification and an analysis of potential impacts on American consumers and businesses.
Under the terms of the Trade Review Act, Congress would have a 60-day window to approve any new tariffs. If Congress does not act within this timeframe, the tariffs would automatically expire. Grassley emphasized the need for Congress to reclaim its constitutional role in regulating interstate and foreign commerce, stating, “For too long, Congress has delegated its clear authority to the executive branch.”
The bipartisan nature of the Grassley-Cantwell bill has garnered praise from various lawmakers, including Senator Thom Tillis from North Carolina, who supports the idea of congressional review in trade matters. However, uncertainty remains about whether the bill will be put to a vote in the Senate.
Notably, the introduction of this bill follows a recent Senate vote, which passed 51-48, to revoke Trump's tariffs on Canadian products. This vote saw collaboration between all 47 Democrats and several Republicans, including Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska. Senator Tim Kaine, a Democrat from Virginia and the author of the resolution, aims to capitalize on this momentum to introduce additional measures to challenge Trump's tariffs.
Senator Kaine warns of the potential economic consequences if Congress fails to act against the tariffs, stating that there could be “massive economic heartbreak” if these measures remain in place. He expressed concern over the rapid economic decline since Trump took office, highlighting the need for Congress to intervene to restore stability.
However, some Republicans remain cautious about aligning with Democrats on this issue, fearing backlash from their constituents. Senator Mike Rounds from South Dakota emphasized the need for a neutral political environment to address tariffs without partisan pressures.
In the House, senior Democrats are also seeking to halt Canadian tariffs similar to the Senate's recent actions. Since Speaker Mike Johnson appears hesitant to openly challenge Trump, Democrats are considering a discharge petition—a legislative tool that allows them to bypass GOP leadership and force a vote if they gather 218 signatures.
Representative Gregory Meeks, who chairs the Foreign Affairs Committee, is at the forefront of this effort, with support from Representative Marcy Kaptur of Ohio. They are exploring the possibility of crafting a resolution that mirrors the Senate's actions, aiming to replicate their success.
Some Republicans are showing signs of support for the Democratic discharge petition, indicating a willingness to cross party lines. With a slim GOP majority of 220-213, Democrats would need at least five Republicans to join them in signing the petition. Representative Don Bacon from Nebraska has expressed his potential support, stating, “I do think Congress should take back its tariff authorities and I think tariffs on Canada are inappropriate.”
As the situation evolves, the future of Trump's tariffs remains uncertain, with lawmakers from both parties recognizing the need for a balanced approach to trade policy that prioritizes the economic well-being of American consumers.
