House GOP Mutiny Tanks Vote to Shield Trump’s Tariffs

In a significant blow to House leadership, three Republican lawmakers joined all Democrats on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, to defeat a key procedural measure that would have protected President Donald Trump’s sweeping global tariffs from congressional challenge.

The 214-217 vote came after GOP leaders delayed proceedings for seven hours in a failed attempt to sway holdouts. The rejected “rule” included language that would have blocked any resolutions of disapproval against the administration’s emergency tariffs through July 31, 2026.

The “Holdout” Trio

With a razor-thin majority, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) could only afford one defection. The rebellion was led by a small but determined group of Republicans:

• Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-CA): Criticized the leadership for “smuggling” unrelated tariff protections into a standard procedural vote. “The rule is meant to bring a bill to the floor… not to expand the power of leadership at the expense of our members,” Kiley stated.
• Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE): Emphasized constitutional authority, posting on X that “Article I… places authority over taxes and tariffs with Congress for a reason.” Bacon noted that tariffs have been a “net negative” for Nebraska’s farmers and manufacturers.
• Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY): A frequent critic of leadership, Massie refused to compromise his principles, reportedly telling the Washington Examiner that leadership “didn’t even try” to whip him before the vote.

Why the July 31 Deadline?

GOP leadership sought the July 31 extension to align with the U.S. Supreme Court’s current term.

• The SCOTUS Case: The Court is currently weighing whether the President’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China is constitutional.
• Judicial Skepticism: During oral arguments in November 2025, several justices appeared skeptical of the administration’s claim that tariffs are “regulatory” rather than “taxes.” Chief Justice John Roberts specifically questioned if the move violated the “major questions” doctrine.
• Johnson’s Strategy: Speaker Johnson told reporters that it was “logical” to pause congressional action until the Court issues its ruling, which is expected by early summer.

Escalating Trade Tensions

The defeat opens the door for House Democrats to force a vote as early as Wednesday on a resolution to terminate tariffs on Canada.

Following the vote, Speaker Johnson acknowledged the difficulty of leading a divided caucus, stating, “This is life with a small majority. I need unanimity every day, and we didn’t get it tonight.”