In a stunning revolt that signals the unraveling of Donald Trump’s iron grip on the GOP, another Republican has publicly quit on his signature economic plans, amid a mass exodus from Congress that could cripple his agenda. With at least two key lawmakers breaking ranks over unpopular tariffs, the party faces a humiliating defeat that threatens to expose Trump’s policies as economically disastrous. This rebellion underscores a growing wave of dissatisfaction, as dozens of Republicans flee the toxic atmosphere he’s created, potentially reshaping the political landscape in the midterms and beyond. The urgency of this moment cannot be overstated, as Trump’s once-loyal allies now openly defy him, risking chaos in Washington.
Republicans are quitting en masse, with an unprecedented 60 lawmakers choosing not to seek re-election this year, marking the highest departure rate in nearly a century. This exodus includes 51 House members and nine senators, many citing Trump’s divisive leadership as the breaking point. Figures like Mitch McConnell and Tom Tillis, long-time Trump foes, are among those exiting, fed up with the administration’s corruption and erratic decisions. The sheer scale of this departure paints a picture of a party in disarray, where loyalty to Trump no longer outweighs personal and professional tolls. As the midterms loom, these resignations could tip the balance of power, leaving Trump’s agenda vulnerable.
At the heart of this revolt are Trump’s tariffs, which critics argue are crushing American businesses and families. House Republicans, worried about electoral backlash, are now poised to block extensions of these policies, with moderates like Don Bacon openly declaring their opposition. Bacon, who is leaving Congress, called the tariffs a “big tax“ on consumers, highlighting how they force companies to absorb costs or pass them on, fueling inflation. This defiance comes as Trump’s economic missteps mount, with job growth shrinking and manufacturing losses hitting 65,000 positions in the last year alone. The revolt isn’t just about policy; it’s a direct rebuke of Trump’s leadership style.
Speaker Mike Johnson’s attempts to shield Trump’s tariffs through procedural rules have backfired, as at least two Republicans signal readiness to vote against him. This could open the floodgates for Democratic challenges, potentially overturning duties on imports from Mexico, Canada, and beyond. The vote, expected soon, represents a pivotal moment where Trump’s allies choose political survival over blind allegiance. Meanwhile, Trump’s own words—from boasting about hiking tariffs on Switzerland—reveal the pettiness driving these decisions, alienating even his base. The economic fallout is real, with open job listings at a five-year low and hiring rates plummeting to levels unseen since the Great Recession.
This rebellion extends beyond Congress, reflecting a broader erosion of Trump’s influence. As more Republicans seek safer offices or retire, they’re abandoning his “America First“ rhetoric, which has failed to deliver on promises of lower prices and growth. The administration’s handling of data, including delayed job reports, only adds to the perception of incompetence, with official figures finally due this week potentially confirming the downturn. Critics argue Trump’s policies are not about national security but personal vendettas, as seen in his tariff tirades. The result? A party fracturing under the weight of his unpopularity, forcing Republicans to confront an electorate increasingly disillusioned.
In interviews and statements, departing lawmakers have been blunt about their reasons, pointing to a “toxic work culture“ under Trump that prioritizes chaos over governance. For instance, Iowa’s Joni Ernst cited family as her focus, but underlying tensions with Trump’s agenda were clear. This wave of exits isn’t isolated; it’s a calculated retreat from districts where Trump’s policies have become electoral liabilities. As the midterms approach, these defections could lead to widespread losses, amplifying the revolt and pressuring remaining Republicans to distance themselves. The urgency here is palpable, with Trump’s plans hanging by a thread.
Adding to the 𝒹𝓇𝒶𝓂𝒶, Trump’s economic boasts—claiming victories amid rising deficits—ring hollow against hard data. Private estimates show U.S. companies hiring just 5,000 people in January, the lowest since 2009, while layoffs surge. The White House’s odd response, like the “Don’t be a panickin“ memo, underscores the administration’s denial, trying to spin bad news as success. Yet, as Republicans quit, they’re signaling that the emperor has no clothes, exposing Trump’s tariffs as a self-inflicted wound. This isn’t just policy failure; it’s a leadership crisis that could redefine the GOP’s future.
The implications of this revolt are far-reaching, potentially ending Trump’s ability to push through unchecked policies. With Democrats eyeing resolutions to dismantle tariffs, the House vote could be the tipping point. Republicans like Kevin Kiley of California are already on record opposing extensions, showing cracks in the facade. As Trump’s approval wanes, especially on immigration and the economy, this internal strife might force a reckoning. The fast-paced unraveling of his coalition highlights a party at war with itself, where loyalty costs too much. For Trump, this revolt isn’t just a setback; it’s an existential threat.
Observers note that Trump’s response—doubling down on tariffs despite the backlash—only accelerates the exodus. His interview rants about foreign leaders reveal a leader unmoored, prioritizing ego over strategy. This has left Republicans in tough districts scrambling, choosing to run for governor or retire rather than defend the indefensible. The economic toll, from higher consumer costs to job losses, is eroding the very base Trump needs. As the revolt gains momentum, it underscores a simple truth: Trump’s plans are unsustainable, and his party is paying the price.
In the end, this breaking news story captures a pivotal shift in American politics, where even Trump’s staunchest allies are walking away. The revolt over tariffs and the mass congressional departures signal a broader rejection of his divisive era. With the midterms on the horizon, the urgency of this moment demands attention, as the GOP grapples with an uncertain path forward. Trump’s legacy, once built on unyielding support, now faces dismantling from within, leaving Washington in turmoil and the nation watching closely.