Senators Challenge Trump’s Tariffs with New Trade Review Act of 2025

In a bold move to rein in executive power over trade policy, Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) introduced the Trade Review Act of 2025 this week, signaling a growing bipartisan pushback against President Donald Trump’s latest wave of tariffs.

The legislation, which comes in the wake of financial market turmoil and public skepticism over increased import taxes, aims to restore congressional authority over U.S. trade decisions—a power that has gradually shifted to the executive branch over recent decades.

What the Trade Review Act Proposes

At its core, the Trade Review Act of 2025 would impose key checks on the president’s tariff powers:

• Automatic Expiration: Any new tariff imposed by the president would expire within 60 days unless approved by Congress.
• Early Notification: The administration would be required to notify Congress within 48 hours of enacting a new tariff or modifying existing ones.
• Congressional Oversight: Lawmakers could cancel tariffs through a resolution of disapproval, providing a legislative pathway to override unilateral executive actions.

Why Now? Market Volatility and Political Pressure

The bill follows President Trump’s announcement of sweeping new tariffs on foreign imports, part of his broader “America First” economic agenda. These new trade measures triggered an immediate market reaction, with the S&P 500 tumbling more than 3% in a single day—its sharpest drop in months. Analysts cite investor concerns over trade retaliation, supply chain disruptions, and inflationary pressure.

Senator Grassley, a long-time advocate for congressional trade oversight, stated,

“Trade policy has major consequences for American businesses and families. It’s time Congress reclaims its constitutional role in these decisions.”

Senator Cantwell echoed the sentiment, highlighting the need for balance and accountability:

“We need a smarter, more deliberate approach to trade—one that includes Congress, not just the whims of any one president.”

Public Opinion Split on Tariffs

Recent polling reflects a divided American public on the issue. A Reuters/Ipsos survey conducted after Trump’s tariff announcement found that approximately 50% of Americans oppose additional tariffs, while about 30% support them, and the remaining 20% remain undecided.

Concerns among voters range from rising consumer prices to potential job losses in export-heavy industries. Small businesses and manufacturers that rely on foreign materials have been especially vocal, warning that increased costs could squeeze profits and force layoffs.

The Broader Battle Over Trade Authority

The Trade Review Act of 2025 is the latest in a series of legislative attempts over the past decade to limit executive control over trade. Presidents have long used statutes like the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose tariffs unilaterally, especially under the guise of national security or economic emergency.

With Trump’s renewed emphasis on aggressive tariff policy—and the resulting backlash—lawmakers see an opportunity to reset the balance of power.

Trade experts say the bill could face legal challenges or a veto threat if it reaches the White House, but the growing bipartisan support signals that Congress is increasingly willing to confront the executive branch on matters of trade.

What’s Next?

The Trade Review Act will head to the Senate Finance Committee for hearings in the coming weeks. Early reports suggest a mix of Democratic and Republican lawmakers are open to the legislation, particularly those from states heavily affected by global trade.

If passed, the law could reshape how future presidents engage in international economic policy—and mark a historic reassertion of congressional authority over one of the most consequential aspects of American governance.

Conclusion:
As markets react, businesses worry, and the public watches prices climb, the question looms: Should one person have the power to alter the global economic landscape overnight? With the Trade Review Act of 2025, Congress is sending a clear message—it wants its seat back at the trade table.