Trump's Sweeping Tariffs Ignite GOP Division, Economic Concerns Mount
April 3, 2025
President Trump recently announced a sweeping global baseline tariff of 10% on all imports and a staggering 54% specifically on China, invoking the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 to justify these measures.
A growing number of Republicans are voicing opposition to Trump's tariffs, which have already negatively impacted global markets and raised fears of a recession.
Economists predict that these tariffs could lead to a massive shock to the U.S. economy, significantly increasing the cost of living for consumers and businesses alike.
Grassley emphasized the need for Congress to reclaim its constitutional authority over trade policies, which he believes has been overly delegated to the executive branch.
Meanwhile, in the House, Democrats are planning to introduce a resolution similar to the Senate's to halt Canadian tariffs, with Rep. Gregory Meeks considering a discharge petition to bypass GOP leadership.
The Senate recently voted to revoke Trump's tariffs on Canadian products, marking a significant rebuke against the president and reflecting bipartisan concern over the economic impact of his policies.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the tariffs as one of Trump's worst decisions, labeling them a 'financial forest fire' due to their potential impact on American families.
Despite the criticism, Vice President JD Vance defended Trump's tariff policies, arguing that previous tariffs did not lead to inflation during Trump's first term.
This announcement has sparked significant backlash, leading to a political bind for many Republican lawmakers who feel pressured to support Trump while expressing concerns about the negative consequences of his tariff policies.
In response to these developments, Senators Chuck Grassley and Maria Cantwell introduced a bill aimed at limiting Trump's tariff authority, requiring congressional approval for new tariffs within 60 days.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed frustration over the U.S.'s shift in trade policy, stating that Canada must now navigate a new reality as the U.S. has abandoned its role as a global economic leader.
Experts warn that without a coherent strategy, Trump's tariffs could inflict long-term damage on the economy, calling for stability over arbitrary policies.
Summary based on 13 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Apr 3, 2025
Senators unveil bill to claw back power over tariffs amid Trump trade wars
The Washington Post • Apr 3, 2025
Trump tariffs live updates: Senators introduce bipartisan bill to rein in presidential tariff authority
Yahoo News • Apr 3, 2025
US senators seek to rein in Trump tariff authority