Liz Goodwin, congressional correspondent for The Post, and Theodoric Meyer, Senate reporter for The Washington Post, dive into the Republican Party's turmoil over new tariffs. They explore whether GOP members will back Trump's economic strategies or risk his ire. The discussion also highlights how recent elections in Florida and Wisconsin reflect shifting political tides, including unexpected voter turnout spurred by Elon Musk's support for a conservative candidate. Lastly, they analyze Cory Booker's marathon Senate speech and its mixed impact on Democratic motivation.
The internal conflict among Republicans over supporting Trump's tariffs highlights their struggle between party loyalty and economic principles affecting voter sentiment.
Recent electoral successes for Democrats in states like Wisconsin suggest increased voter engagement, demonstrating shifting political dynamics ahead of future elections.
Deep dives
Impact of Tariffs on Domestic Politics
The implementation of new tariffs by the Trump administration is causing significant political fallout among Republicans. While some members are openly supportive of the tariffs, viewing them as a bold move to protect American interests, others are concerned about the immediate negative effects on the stock market and the traditional Republican stance on free trade. Many Republicans have historically opposed tariffs as they are essentially taxes on imports, leading to discomfort within the party. This internal conflict stems from a mixture of apprehension about the tariffs’ impact on their constituents and the potential long-term consequences for the party’s economic principles.
Republican Discontent and Calls for Action
A notable shift in sentiment among Republicans is reflected in discussions surrounding proposed measures to rein in presidential power over tariffs. Senator Charles Grassley’s proposal to reassert Congressional authority highlights the growing unease among even traditionally loyal party members. Some Republican senators are hesitant to oppose Trump openly, fearing political backlash, while others are starting to speak out against the economic policies that are seen as detrimental to their states. This hesitation is coupled with a recognition of the potential harm tariffs can impose on industries crucial to their constituents, like agriculture.
Democratic Optimism Amidst Election Results
Recent election outcomes in Wisconsin and Florida reveal a noticeable shift in voter sentiment, suggesting an encouraging trend for Democrats heading into future races. The strong performance of Democratic candidates in these elections indicates heightened engagement among their base, countering earlier fears that dissatisfaction with party leadership might lead to lower voter turnout. This uptick is attributed to various factors, including the mobilization of voters around key issues and reactions to high-profile political figures. Notably, the Democratic candidate in Wisconsin won by a significant margin despite considerable financial backing for her opponent.
Cory Booker’s Historic Senate Speech
Senator Cory Booker's extended speech on the Senate floor has sparked discussions about the effectiveness and motivations behind such efforts within Congress. Although his speech garnered attention and energized some segments of the Democratic Party, many still question its practical impact on legislation or party unity. The act of delivering a long speech serves as a symbol of endurance and commitment but also highlights the ongoing struggle within the party to find cohesive leadership and direction. As Democrats seek ways to rally their base, symbolic actions like this may resonate with voters looking for advocacy and assertiveness from their representatives.
With the stock market roiling following the announcement of new tariffs, Republicans are confronting a challenge. Will they support President Donald Trump’s economic plans, even if they don’t believe in them? Or will they seek to temper his moves and draw criticism from a president who hates disloyalty?
Senior reporter Aaron Blake talks with Post congressional correspondent Liz Goodwin and Senate reporter Theodoric Meyer about the mixed reactions to this week’s bombshell economic news. They also discuss how special elections in Florida, and a state Supreme Court race in Wisconsin, provide Democrats with some positive data points after their stinging 2024 defeat. In particular, Elon Musk’s spending push in support of the conservative candidate in Wisconsin may have backfired, motivating liberal voters to turn out en masse. Plus, what Cory Booker’s more than 25-hour speech from the Senate floor did and didn’t accomplish.
Today’s show was produced by Laura Benshoff. It was edited by Reena Flores and mixed by Sean Carter.