The U.S. Senate voted 52-48 on Tuesday to revoke former President Donald Trump's tariffs against Brazil, marking a rare bipartisan effort to roll back trade measures tied to a 2025 national emergency declaration. The emergency, which Trump cited over Brazil's prosecution of ex-leader Jair Bolsonaro for an alleged coup attempt, enabled tariffs that critics argue have strained bilateral relations and raised costs for American consumers.
Five Republicans joined Democrats in supporting the bill, signaling growing unease over the economic impact of Trump-era trade policies. The measure now heads to the Republican-controlled House, where it faces likely opposition despite Senate momentum. Similar efforts to lift tariffs on Canada and other nations are slated for votes later this week.
Senate Democrats framed the vote as a check on executive overreach, accusing Trump of misusing emergency powers to justify tariffs that contributed to rising commodity prices. "These tariffs are taxes on everyday Americans," argued Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. Republicans opposing the bill maintained that the measures protected U.S. economic interests.
Brazilian officials welcomed the Senate's move, noting a $410 billion U.S. trade surplus with Brazil since 2010. Trump's 2025 executive order had accused Brazil of threatening U.S. national security and conducting "political persecution" against Bolsonaro, who faces trial over alleged efforts to overturn election results.
The outcome highlights shifting political dynamics in Washington as lawmakers grapple with the legacy of Trump's "America First" trade agenda. With midterm elections approaching, the vote could amplify debates over how trade policy impacts inflation and global partnerships.
