In a move that’s generating headlines across the country, President Donald Trump has announced bold new 25% tariffs on foreign-made vehicles—part of his ongoing commitment to the America First agenda.
Set to take effect on April 2, which Trump has declared “Liberation Day,” the tariffs aim to protect American manufacturing, restore U.S. jobs, and reduce dependence on foreign supply chains.
But not everyone in Congress is on board.
GOP Congressman: “We Made a Mistake”
Rep. Don Bacon, a Republican from Nebraska, told CNN’s Wolf Blitzer that Congress may have gone too far in giving the president sweeping authority to impose tariffs.
“This power belongs to Congress,” Bacon said. “We need to revisit the legislation that gave the president tariff authority and take it back—not just from President Trump, but from future presidents as well.”
Bacon cited Article One of the Constitution, which gives Congress the power of the purse, including trade and tariffs. He believes it’s time for lawmakers to restore that balance and reclaim oversight.
A Surge in Tariff Activity Under Trump
The vehicle tariff is just the latest in a series of bold trade actions taken by President Trump to defend American workers and industries:
- 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico
- A major escalation of the U.S.-China trade war
- New tariffs on steel, aluminum, and potentially pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, copper, and lumber
China responded to Trump’s recent tariff increase by slapping 15% duties on U.S. food and agricultural goods—but the White House isn’t backing down.
Pushback from Allies
Even longtime U.S. allies are reacting.
The European Union has announced retaliatory tariffs worth $28 billion targeting American exports like blue jeans, bourbon, and Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Some of those tariffs will kick in mid-April.
Despite global criticism, many American workers and conservative lawmakers are cheering the president’s tough approach.
UAW and Michigan Republicans Applaud Trump
Shawn Fain, President of the United Auto Workers, praised the administration for confronting trade deals that have “devastated working-class communities for decades.”
And Rep. Lisa McClain (R-MI) called the auto tariffs a win for her state:
“This is going to give American and Michigan-made vehicles a major boost.”
Tariffs vs. Free Trade: What’s Best for Consumers?
Rep. Bacon acknowledges that President Trump “obviously likes tariffs” and sees them as leverage for fair and reciprocal trade. But he added that free trade, when done right, is the best long-term strategy for consumers.
“Tariffs can hurt consumers if they drag on,” he said. “Free trade gives Americans the best products at the best prices.”
What’s Next? More Tariffs May Be Coming
The Trump administration has hinted that more tariffs are being considered, as part of a broader push to protect national interests and restore economic independence.
As the trade debate heats up in Washington, one thing is clear: President Trump isn’t backing down.