By Matt Underwood Senate passes a resolution to end Trump’s global tariffs; four Republicans side with Democrats, a move that’s certainly making waves. This is a symbolic gesture, a vote of disapproval against the trade policies of the former president. However, let’s be realistic here; the practical impact might be minimal. With Speaker Mike Johnson seemingly unlikely to bring it up for a vote in the House, and with Trump almost certain to veto anything that curtails his power, it’s more of a statement than a game-changer.
The fact that any Republicans broke ranks to support the Democrats in this is interesting, to say the least. It’s a sign that some, like Senator Rand Paul, the resolution’s GOP sponsor, along with Senators Mitch McConnell, Susan Collins, and Lisa Murkowski, are willing to challenge the status quo, even if it’s mostly a show. Some might say it’s too little, too late, especially considering the long-term impact of Trump’s policies. While the symbolic win is appreciated, the lack of real teeth in the resolution leaves many feeling like it’s a hollow victory.
The nature of the resolution itself is a bit… convoluted. Essentially, it allows Congress to repeal tariffs through a vote, but only if the president *signs* the repeal of his own tariffs. It’s a system that gives a president veto power over a congressional act that was constitutionally granted to Congress in the first place, something that feels, well, a little backwards. The House needs to pass it, and more than that, there’s the need for a supermajority to override a veto. All things considered, the resolution is likely to go nowhere.
There’s a lot of talk about how these actions are, in a way, a response to potential upcoming midterms. Politicians, knowing that voters are concerned about tariffs and even the ongoing government shutdown, are attempting to appear active. Some might say this is not a matter of principles but of protecting their own political careers. Either way, it’s a step toward curbing the executive branch’s reach, especially since a similar motion failed earlier. It’s also worth noting the irony: those who held all the levers of power are now seeing some of their own party members starting to push back.
The timing is relevant, too. It’s being noted that the air traffic controllers are no longer receiving their paychecks as a part of the government shutdown, which is impacting holiday travel. This is a critical time, and billions of dollars are on the line. Some see this as an opportunity for the former president to exert more power. Regardless of the intentions, the potential for a full stop or a slow down is there.
And let’s not forget the bigger picture. Some view this whole situation as part of the slow destruction of this country. While it’s easy to blame one individual, such as the current Speaker of the House, the reality is more complex. There are many Republicans who are part of this process. It would only take a few of them changing their minds to bring about impeachment. But, it seems, party loyalty trumps the country’s interests.
It is interesting that the executive branch has the authority to make tariffs. It’s even more interesting that Congress can’t fully take back the power that was exclusively theirs. It’s hard not to notice that this is a symbolic gesture only, that’s not likely to go anywhere. However, it’s also a victory for sanity. It shows a bit of foresight.
In the end, though, the situation remains frustrating. The four Republicans aren’t necessarily showing courage. It’s more of a realization that the political winds are shifting. The public may not have realized the implications, but now the tide has turned.