Tariffs are taxes on imported goods used to protect domestic industries or generate revenue. The debate centers on their economic impact. Some support tariffs to protect local jobs and industries from foreign competition, while others argue they raise prices for consumers and disrupt global trade, favoring free trade and minimal government intervention.
On tariffs, VoteSee scores every member of Congress on a spectrum from Conditional Support for Tariffs (Particularly to protect domestic industries and jobs, especially in sectors vulnerable to foreign competition) to Complete Support for Tariffs (Support tariffs to protect domestic industries and reduce dependence on foreign goods, especially from countries like China), based on their actual votes.
Where the Parties Stand on Tariffs
Democrats score 44/100 on average (221 members scored).
Independents score 49/100 on average (3 members scored).
Republicans score 59/100 on average (262 members scored).
Strongest Voices for Conditional Support for Tariffs
An act to impose sanctions and other measures with respect to the Russian Federation, as championed by the late Senator Lindsey O. Graham, and for other purposes. (September 16, 2026)
To authorize support for Ukraine, and for other purposes. (June 5, 2026)
To provide for the reform and continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through fiscal year 2031, and for other purposes. (April 30, 2026)
To extend duty-free treatment provided with respect to imports from Haiti under the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act, and for other purposes. (January 13, 2026)
A joint resolution terminating the national emergency declared to impose global tariffs. (October 30, 2025)