'Patience Wearing Thin': Some Republicans Privately Cheer SCOTUS Rebuke of Trump's Tariffs

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'Patience Wearing Thin': Some Republicans Privately Cheer SCOTUS Rebuke of Trump's Tariffs

The small but vocal bloc of Republicans who have publicly diverged from President Trump on trade policy are not alone in their quiet satisfaction following the Supreme Court's decision to strike down his sweeping global tariffs, Axios has learned. This judicial intervention appears to have provided a much-needed political lifeline for lawmakers grappling with the economic fallout and internal party divisions over the President's protectionist agenda.

Why it Matters: Cracks in GOP Support Widening

The ruling arrived at a critical juncture, as fissures in Republican support for Trump's trade barriers had become increasingly apparent. Sources within the party indicate that a "messy" full-scale revolt against the President's trade policies was brewing and potentially just around the corner. Many Republicans had grown weary of the economic consequences stemming from the protracted trade disputes, with limited tangible benefits to show for the disruption.

"Republicans have been patient with the President's tariffs until recently, but few significant results have been secured via the trade war," a senior House Republican confided to Axios. This sentiment underscores a growing frustration that the aggressive trade tactics were not yielding the desired economic outcomes, while simultaneously creating political headaches.

The same Republican official elaborated on the timing and impact of the court's decision: "Patience was running thin, and in some respects the Supreme Court decision makes a messy breakup unnecessary." This suggests that the ruling allowed lawmakers to distance themselves from the controversial tariffs without the political repercussions of directly defying the President, a move that could have been politically perilous, especially with midterm elections on the horizon.

Driving the News: The Supreme Court's Decision

In a decisive 6-3 ruling delivered on Friday, the Supreme Court determined that President Trump had exceeded his executive authority by unilaterally imposing tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). This landmark decision effectively nullifies several key tariff actions undertaken by the administration:

• The 10% global baseline "Liberation Day" tariff.
• Additional reciprocal tariffs imposed on goods from dozens of countries.
• Tariffs specifically targeting drug-related trade with Canada, Mexico, and China.

According to the Chamber of Progress, these measures have been invalidated. However, it's important to note that the ruling did not affect all tariffs. Several others, including those on aluminum and steel imposed under different trade authorities, remain in place.

Trump's Response and Future Strategies

Undeterred, President Trump has already signaled his intent to explore alternative avenues for imposing levies. Shortly after the ruling, his administration announced a new, temporary 10% global tariff, leveraging his more limited powers under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. This maneuver highlights the administration's persistent commitment to using tariffs as a tool of economic policy, even in the face of judicial setbacks.

What We're Hearing: Political Calculations

The Supreme Court's decision has been welcomed by some Republicans precisely because it shields them from political blowback. By having the tariffs struck down by the judiciary, lawmakers can avoid the difficult position of publicly opposing the President, a move that could alienate his base and jeopardize their electoral prospects. The ruling provides a convenient "out," allowing them to sidestep a potentially damaging public confrontation.

"A messy public dispute on tariffs between Congress and the President absolutely would have caused political problems for the midterms," the senior House Republican acknowledged. This sentiment reflects a broader concern within the party about maintaining unity and avoiding internal conflicts that could distract from electoral goals.

Interestingly, even some staunch Trump loyalists have found merit in the court's decision. Another House Republican, described as a "hardcore Republican and Trump loyalist," told Axios that the court "made the correct ruling." This perspective frames the issue as a matter of constitutional principle, emphasizing the importance of preserving Congress's constitutional authority over tax policy, a core tenet of the legislative branch's power.

The Path Forward: Congressional Action and Political Tightrope

Despite the Supreme Court's ruling, the legislative landscape remains complex. Congress may be required to vote in the coming months on whether to reinstate or uphold the tariffs imposed under Section 122. Furthermore, some factions within the Republican party are advocating for proactive legislative measures to codify the very tariffs that were just invalidated by the court.

Representative Riley Moore (R-W.Va.) issued a statement urging action: "Congress should... take action to give President Trump additional tools to defend our nation against historically unfair trade practices." This call for legislative reinforcement underscores the ongoing debate about the appropriate balance of power in trade policy and the desire among some to equip the President with more instruments to pursue his trade agenda.

This intricate situation places Republican leadership in a precarious position. They must navigate the delicate balance between aligning with President Trump's policy objectives and safeguarding their own vulnerable incumbents, particularly in the lead-up to crucial elections. The ruling, while offering some relief, has also set the stage for further political maneuvering and potential legislative battles.

Ekhbary News Agency