Republicans quietly celebrate the demise of tariffs. That relief might not last.

Politico

by By Alec Hernandez and Samuel Benson

February 20, 2026

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The Supreme Court’s recent decision to overturn President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs has left Republicans in a mixed emotional state. While many in the GOP, particularly those in battleground states, breathe a sigh of relief, there is an undercurrent of unease. This comes as affordability and economic stability remain key concerns for voters heading into the midterms. The tariffs, which were seen as harmful to manufacturing and agricultural industries, had caused significant headaches for Republicans, especially in regions where these sectors are vital. However, Trump’s announcement of a new 10 percent global tariff just days after the ruling has many within his party on edge. The tariffs have been a contentious issue for Trump and his allies, with critics arguing that they disrupted the economy and hurt farmers and manufacturers. Republican strategists and candidates in key states have faced challenges navigating Trump’s hardline stance on trade policies. Some GOP members privately expressed frustration with Trump’s decision to bypass Congress and instead rely on Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, a move they view as legally risky and counterproductive. This has created uncertainty about how the administration will proceed, particularly in an election year when economic stability is a top concern for voters. Public opinion polls indicate that Trump’s tariff policies are broadly unpopular, with a plurality of Americans believing they harm the U.S. economy both short-term and long-term. This sentiment is particularly strong among non-MAGA Republicans, who are more likely to oppose the tariffs compared to their MAGA-aligned counterparts. Despite this backlash, Trump remains confident in his approach, claiming that without tariffs, the country would face greater economic trouble. His stance has further divided his party, with some questioning why he didn’t seek congressional approval, which they argue could have provided a more stable and collaborative path forward. The Supreme Court’s ruling on the tariffs has added pressure on Republicans to reconsider their

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Originally published on Politico on 2/20/2026