Washington, D.C. – In a dramatic and closely contested vote, the U.S. Senate on Wednesday rejected a bipartisan resolution aimed at terminating former President Donald Trump’s global tariffs, underscoring the deep divisions over trade policy even as new data reveals the first economic contraction in three years.

The resolution, led by Senator Ron Wyden (D) and Senator Rand Paul (R), sought to end the national emergency declaration that has allowed 10% tariffs on U.S. trading partners and reciprocal higher duties on 57 nations, including key allies like Canada and the European Union.

The final tally was 49-49, falling short of the majority needed to pass. In a decisive move, Senate Majority Leader John Thune quickly advanced a second vote to permanently table the measure, which passed 50-49 after Vice President JD Vance cast the tie-breaking vote.

Economic Impacts and Political Stakes

The Senate decision came just hours after the U.S. Commerce Department announced a 0.3% economic contraction in the first quarter of 2025 — the first since early 2022. Economists have pointed to the disruptive impact of tariffs, which have led to increased consumer prices and uncertainty in financial markets.

Despite these economic warning signs, Senate Republicans, with few exceptions, closed ranks to support the Trump-era tariff policy, signaling a continued commitment to a protectionist trade stance ahead of the 2026 midterms.

“While the vote was narrow, it reflects the growing tension between economic pragmatism and political loyalty,” said a senior political analyst. “This issue is likely to stay center-stage as inflation, trade, and consumer costs remain in the spotlight.”

A Bipartisan Push for Trade Reform

Although unsuccessful, the resolution marked a rare bipartisan challenge to entrenched trade policy, drawing support from prominent figures across party lines. Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski joined the effort, emphasizing the need to differentiate between allies and adversaries in trade enforcement.

“This isn’t about weakening our security — it’s about strengthening our partnerships and protecting American consumers from higher costs,” Senator Collins said.

What’s Next?

With growing concern over the economic fallout of tariffs, the debate on trade reform is far from over. Lawmakers from both parties have signaled plans to revisit the issue, especially as new quarterly data and business sentiment reports emerge.

While the House of Representatives remains resistant to fast-tracking similar measures, continued bipartisan efforts could build momentum for a more strategic and targeted U.S. trade policy.

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