The US Senate has narrowly rejected a resolution aimed at halting President Donald Trump’s controversial tariffs, despite growing bipartisan unease over their potential impact on the economy.

In a 49-49 deadlock on Wednesday, the measure failed to advance — just hours after official data confirmed the US economy had contracted for the first time in three years.

Three Republican senators — Rand Paul (Kentucky), Susan Collins (Maine), and Lisa Murkowski (Alaska) — broke ranks with their party to support the resolution, joining all Democrats and Independents present.

“The Senate must not remain silent in the face of reckless tariff policies,” said Democratic Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon. “It is Congress that holds the constitutional authority to impose tariffs and regulate trade.”

While the proposal stood little chance of success in the Republican-majority House or surviving a presidential veto, supporters argued it was an important statement of opposition.

“This is a debate we need,” said Senator Paul. “If the economy weakens further, the question will be: was this the right strategy?”

Trump has dismissed warnings of an economic downturn, even as the Commerce Department reported a 0.3% GDP decline in Q1 — before his harshest tariffs, including a 145% levy on Chinese goods, took effect.

Source: Al Jazeera
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