House GOP Faces Tariff Rebellion Against Trump

Speaker Johnson's effort to block tariff votes faces resistance from moderate Republicans

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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House Republican leaders are struggling to maintain party unity as they try to protect President Trump's tariff regime. Speaker Mike Johnson has repeatedly added provisions to procedural votes that would ban members from challenging Trump's tariffs, but moderate GOP lawmakers are growing increasingly frustrated and are threatening to break ranks. The vote on the rule containing the tariff language is expected to be close, with some Republicans willing to defy Johnson and the White House to address concerns from their constituents about the economic impact of the tariffs.

Why it matters

The potential Republican defections on the tariff issue highlight the growing divide within the party, with moderates prioritizing the economic interests of their districts over loyalty to Trump. A defeat for Johnson would be a significant blow to the administration's trade agenda and could embolden Democrats to force more votes challenging Trump's tariff policies.

The details

Johnson's leadership team added a provision to the rule being voted on that would ban members from bringing up resolutions challenging Trump's tariff regime until August. But moderate Republicans like Reps. Don Bacon and Kevin Kiley have said they are likely to vote against the rule, citing concerns about the impact of tariffs on the economy, manufacturing jobs, and the agriculture industry. The White House and House GOP leadership are working hard to whip votes, but rank-and-file Republicans are increasingly looking out for their own political interests ahead of the midterm elections.

  • The procedural vote is scheduled for this afternoon.
  • House Democrats are planning to force a vote on Wednesday to overturn Trump's tariffs on Canada.
  • Another measure aimed at Brazil tariffs would likely be ready during the last week of February.

The players

Mike Johnson

The Republican Speaker of the House who is trying to protect Trump's tariff regime from congressional challenges.

Donald Trump

The President whose tariff policies are facing growing resistance from within the Republican Party.

Don Bacon

A Republican Congressman from Nebraska who has said he is likely to vote against the rule containing the tariff language.

Kevin Kiley

A Republican Congressman from California who has also indicated he will oppose the rule that would block tariff challenges.

Greg Meeks

The top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee who has been introducing privileged resolutions to challenge Trump's trade wars.

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What they’re saying

“I made it clear that I'm not in favor of that.”

— Kevin Kiley, Republican Congressman (Punchbowl News)

“American consumers pay the tariffs and thus it is a big tax. I support giving these authorities back to Congress.”

— Don Bacon, Republican Congressman (Punchbowl News)

What’s next

If Johnson's effort to block tariff votes fails, House Democrats are likely to force a vote on Wednesday on a resolution overturning Trump's tariffs on Canada. Another measure aimed at Brazil tariffs would likely be ready during the last week of February.

The takeaway

The potential Republican defections on the tariff issue highlight the growing divide within the party, with moderates prioritizing the economic interests of their districts over loyalty to Trump. A defeat for Johnson would be a significant blow to the administration's trade agenda and could embolden Democrats to force more votes challenging Trump's tariff policies.