In a notable bipartisan move, the U.S. Senate voted 51–48 on April 2, 2025, to pass a resolution aimed at terminating President Donald Trump’s 25% tariffs on Canadian imports.
The tariffs were imposed under a national emergency declaration citing fentanyl smuggling concerns.
Four Republican senators—Susan Collins (ME), Lisa Murkowski (AK), Mitch McConnell (KY), and Rand Paul (KY)—joined all Democrats in supporting the measure, signaling rare cross-party opposition to the administration’s trade policies.
Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a co-sponsor of the resolution, criticized the tariffs as economically harmful and questioned the validity of the emergency declaration. He argued that the measures would increase costs for American families and businesses, particularly in border states.
Despite the Senate’s approval, the resolution faces significant hurdles. The Republican-controlled House of Representatives is unlikely to bring it to a vote, and President Trump has vowed to veto any such measure that reaches his desk.
The Senate’s action underscores growing unease among some lawmakers regarding the administration’s use of emergency powers to implement trade policies and its potential impact on the U.S. economy and international relations.
