Narrow Vote Exposes Growing Partisan Tensions
The US House of Representatives voted to rescind President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods. Lawmakers approved the resolution with 219 votes in favor and 211 votes against. Six Republican lawmakers joined Democrats to support the measure.
The vote remains symbolic because the US Senate must approve it and Trump must sign it. Trump is very unlikely to sign the resolution into law.
Trump Expanded Trade Pressure After Re-Election
Trump imposed several tariffs on Canada after his re-election. He recently threatened a 100% import tax in response to Canada’s proposed trade deal with China.
Trump posted a warning on Truth Social during the House debate. He warned Republicans against voting against tariffs and threatened election consequences. He said tariffs provided economic and national security benefits.
Speaker Failed to Halt House Floor Debate
House Speaker Mike Johnson tried to block discussion of the tariffs on the House floor. He failed to stop lawmakers from debating the issue.
Republicans hold a thin majority in the House. The six Republican defections gave Democrats enough votes to pass the resolution.
Democrats Argue Tariffs Harm Allies and Consumers
Democratic Representative Gregory Meeks introduced the measure. He said Trump weaponized tariffs against allies and destabilized the global economy. He said the tariffs harmed relations with Canada and pushed Ottawa closer to China. He also said the tariffs increased prices for Americans.
Republican Defector Criticizes Economic Impact
Representative Don Bacon from Nebraska supported the resolution. He said tariffs created a net negative impact on the economy. He said tariffs acted as a significant tax that consumers, manufacturers, and farmers pay.
Senate Vote and Legal Challenge Ahead
The bill now heads to the US Senate, where Republicans also hold the majority. The measure is unlikely to become law even if the Senate passes it.
Trump’s tariffs also face legal scrutiny. The US Supreme Court will soon rule on a case challenging the president’s authority to impose the levies.
Meeks Plans Broader Campaign Against Tariffs
Meeks said the Canada resolution marks the first of several planned bills. He said he will introduce measures to end tariffs on Mexico, Brazil, and global tariffs announced on Liberation Day.
