Sen. Rand Paul Seeks Congressional Vote on Trump's Tariffs

Senator Rand Paul is leading a bipartisan effort in the Senate to block President Trump’s sweeping tariffs, arguing that tariffs are taxes that constitutionally require congressional approval. Paul contends that the president’s use of emergency powers to impose tariffs undermines both the Constitution and economic stability, and he expects to have enough Senate votes to pass a resolution terminating the tariffs. The initiative has received support from a handful of Republican senators as well as prominent Democrats, but faces strong opposition from House Republican leadership, with Speaker Mike Johnson accused of using procedural maneuvers to prevent a House vote. The White House has warned Congress that any resolution against the tariffs will be vetoed, asserting that the tariffs are necessary for national and economic security. Critics of Paul’s effort argue that blocking the tariffs would weaken America’s trade position and manufacturing sector, while Paul and his allies maintain that unchecked executive tariff powers drive up consumer costs and set a dangerous precedent. Debate continues over whether such trade measures should be under the purview of Congress or the executive branch.