WASHINGTON, D.C. — Kentucky’s senior senator has broken ranks from President Donald Trump to co-sponsor a bill that would restore the role of Congress in setting U.S. trade policy.
U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell joined U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) in sponsoring the Trade Review Act of 2025.
“I have continually emphasized that a trade war is not in the best interest of American households and businesses,” McConnell said. “Regardless of intentions, tariffs are bad policy. Tariffs make it more expensive to do business in America, driving up costs for consumers an average of an additional $1,200 per year. Free trade is essential to Kentucky’s economic success. Many thousands of jobs in our biggest industries – auto manufacturing, bourbon production, and agriculture – rely on America’s export economy. I am proud to join my colleagues in support of bipartisan legislation to reinstate the role of Congress in U.S. trade policy, which would require Congress to approve any new trade policies and tariffs.”
McConnell also said the bill would restore Congress’ authority over tariffs, as mandated by Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution. That section of the Constitution says, “The Congress shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States; but all Duties, Imposts and Excises shall be uniform throughout the United States,” and “To regulate Commerce with foreign Nations, and among the several States, and with the Indian Tribes.”
Under the terms of the bill, the president is required to notify Congress of any tariffs imposed or increased within 48 hours. Congress will then have 60 days to pass a joint resolution approving or ending the tariff. If Congress takes no action within 60 days, the tariffs will automatically expire.
