Kentucky Senator Rand Paul has renewed criticism of former President Donald Trump’s use of tariffs, arguing that they function as taxes and should require approval from Congress.
In public remarks and interviews, Paul emphasized that the Constitution grants Congress—not the president—the authority to impose taxes. He argued that tariffs raise the cost of imported goods, impacting American consumers and businesses, and therefore qualify as a form of taxation.
“Tariffs are taxes, and the power to tax belongs to Congress—not the president,” Paul has stated.
While Paul’s position reflects a traditional view of legislative authority, some officials argue that tariffs can serve as foreign policy tools—powers more aligned with the Executive Branch. Over time, Congress has passed several laws permitting the president to impose tariffs in response to national emergencies or foreign trade threats.
Earlier this year, Trump announced new tariffs under a declaration that certain foreign trade practices posed a national emergency. The administration claimed the move was necessary to protect American jobs and industries.
In response, the Senate voted on a resolution to overturn those tariffs. The measure failed by a 49–49 tie, falling short due to the absences of two senators: Democrat Sheldon Whitehouse and Republican Mitch McConnell. Paul voted in favor of overturning the tariffs, joining all Democrats and a small group of Republicans.
Senator McConnell, also from Kentucky, has long opposed tariffs, often labeling them a hidden tax that burdens businesses and consumers. Despite his absence from the vote, his stance aligns with Paul’s.
Meanwhile, debate continues in Congress over how much authority the president should have in setting trade and economic policy. Some lawmakers believe that while the Executive Branch needs flexibility in emergencies, longer-term tariff strategies should involve congressional approval.
Senator Paul has indicated that the issue remains unresolved.
“It’s an ongoing discussion,” he said. “If future data shows negative effects on markets or economic growth, it will renew questions about whether tariffs are the right tool for achieving trade goals.