The White House is preparing for a contentious vote in the House of Representatives, anticipating that Republicans will defect from their party’s position on overturning President Donald Trump’s Canadian tariffs. A senior administration official stated that despite efforts to persuade members, they expect a significant number of GOP lawmakers to oppose the measure.
House Republicans are concerned about the impact of the tariffs on farmers and other stakeholders in their districts. Some representatives, like Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa), have expressed reservations about supporting the Canadian tariffs, citing concerns for Iowa’s agricultural industry.
The administration is focusing on preventing a veto override, rather than securing party unity. With a two-thirds majority required to overturn the president’s tariffs, the White House believes it is unlikely that Congress will secure this level of support.
The Senate has already voted to disapprove some of Trump’s tariff policies, but the outcome in the House is uncertain. If the measure passes, it would need to return to the Senate for consideration, where Senate Majority Leader John Thune faces an uncertain challenge.
Despite the White House’s skepticism about Congress overcoming its hurdle, the vote represents a symbolic test of party loyalty and President Trump’s ability to shape economic policy through tariffs.
Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2026/02/11/white-house-substantial-gop-defections-canada-tariff-00776381