In recent months, Congress has witnessed a surge of bipartisan interest to rein in President Trump’s escalating tariff powers, with seven Republican senators joining a bill aimed at ensuring legislative oversight over tariffs. The Trade Review Act of 2025, sponsored by Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), proposes that the president must notify Congress of any new tariffs within 48 hours and receive approval within 60 days, aiming to reassert Congress's constitutional role in trade.

Despite the bipartisan spirit, Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) expressed skepticism about the bill's future, citing Trump's threat to veto any such legislation as a significant obstacle. "I don’t think that has a future," Thune stated, indicating that there seems to be limited momentum for a vote in Congress, as reported by the The Hill.

As the global markets react negatively to the tariffs, lawmakers like Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) are vocal in urging constituents to pressure Republican lawmakers to reverse Trump’s aggressive stance on tariffs. During an appearance on MSNBC, Warren emphasized that Congress holds the authority to challenge the president's trade impositions, encouraging public advocacy for a reassessment of tariff strategies.

The introduction of the bill follows a growing sentiment among some Republican lawmakers, including those from trade-dependent districts, who feel that Congress has sacrificed too much control over tariffs to the executive branch. Notable supporters include Reps. Don Bacon (R-Neb.) and David Valadao (R-Calif.), both highlighting the alarming effects of current tariff policies on their constituents. Valadao indicated that these tariffs are harmful, affecting both exporters and consumers, expressing a desire for tariffs to be utilized as a tool for fairness in trade practices.

Sen. Cantwell shared the rationale behind the bipartisan initiative in a recent interview, noting that many of her constituents are bearing the brunt of increased costs linked to tariffs. "We want Congress to reassert itself in this debate and get approval for these unbelievable tariffs that are costing consumers so much money," Cantwell stressed. This sentiment echoes throughout Congress as lawmakers respond to concerns from various sectors affected by the tariffs, including agriculture and manufacturing, as highlighted on Los Angeles Times.

As the economic fallout continues, with fears of a recession looming, the attention on legislative control over tariffs has intensified. The White House strongly opposes the current bill, asserting that such measures would restrict the president's ability to address national emergencies effectively. This stance aligns with discussions among Republicans who wish to give Trump "space" to execute his economic strategies but face mounting pressure from constituents concerned about job security and economic downturn.

With these developments, the stage is set for potential conflict between the legislative and executive branches as the bipartisan bill seeks to recalibrate the balance of power regarding trade, reigniting debates over the essential role of Congress in managing economic policy.