Voters Sent Trump a Tariffs Message, but the White House Still Holds Significant Power

Tariffs and household costs

Trump’s tariffs tax imported goods, and the article links them to higher prices in the United States. A New York Federal Reserve report found tariffs had increased inflation for 67 types of goods; it said those goods’ costs would have fallen without the tariffs.

As of September 2026, tariffs applied to 54% of US imports, compared with 44% a decade earlier. The article estimates the policy added an average of US$820 in taxes per American household in 2026. Rates cited include 35% on Chinese goods, 50% on some Canadian goods and 10% for most countries.

The policy has also created uncertainty for businesses that rely on international supply chains. Importers bear the tariff costs, and small US businesses have been hit hardest, the article says.

Trade pressures in key states

Trump’s stated aim was to boost American products and address trade deficits. But decades of globalisation have produced complex supply chains, while some US industries are not established or cost-effective enough to manufacture goods locally.

The trade conflict with Canada, the US’s second-largest trade partner, has been unpopular and has added economic pressure in northern border states. Car, truck, machinery and metals sectors in Michigan and Ohio have been hit hard.

Voters in those states could connect the trade policy with their own financial pressures, according to the article. It also says Trump’s administration has made more than 50 tariff-policy changes since taking office in January 2025.

Congressional checks and limits

Democrats’ midterm wins give them control of Congress and the ability to pass legislation, but Trump can veto bills. Overriding a veto requires a two-thirds majority in Congress, which Democrats do not have without Republican support.

Democrats are likely to hold hearings and investigations, force votes and resist extending tariff powers. They may also scrutinize the Trade Act 1974, which has enabled additional tariffs on trading partners, including Canada.

Still, the article expects no material shift in trade policy because Trump can veto legislative changes. It says the White House has signalled more executive-led decision-making.

Looking toward 2028

Democrats are likely to use investigations to examine how tariff rates were set for particular industries and trade partners. The effort could help build a cost-of-living argument for the 2028 election.

The party broadly opposes tariffs but has not agreed on a shared alternative. The article says Democrats will need a common position on trade to make their case effectively. The article also notes that Australia is less exposed than many other countries, but its final sentence ends before giving further detail.