‘Smoke & mirrors!’ 3 Republicans defy Trump, side with Democrats on president’s tariffs

The Republican-controlled House of Representatives failed to clear a procedural rule Tuesday evening that would prevent any lawmaker from forcing a vote on terminating President Donald Trump’s tariffs for the majority of 2026.

Lawmakers voted 214-217 to approve the rule, falling short of a simple majority. Tariff-skeptical Republican Reps. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, Kevin Kiley of California and Don Bacon of Nebraska joined every House Democrat in opposition to the measure.

Two Republicans did not vote.