Speaker Mike Johnson has announced his determination to push forward with a vote later today aimed at prohibiting challenges to President Donald Trump's international tariffs. This decision comes despite significant opposition within his own party.

The vote in question seeks to extend a ban on privileged resolutions of disapproval through the end of July. This mechanism previously expired on January 31 but is being revived just as Democrats are gearing up to propose new votes on tariffs as early as tomorrow.

However, Johnson's plan is not without its detractors. A notable faction of House Republicans, who are skeptical of the tariffs, have voiced their opposition. Representatives Kevin Kiley of California and Thomas Massie of Kentucky have explicitly stated their intent to vote against the rule. Their opposition, combined with a potential uniform Democratic front against the vote, could jeopardize its passage. Indiana Representative Victoria Spartz has also expressed her initial opposition, although she has been known to reverse her stance during actual voting sessions.

During a private conference meeting on Tuesday morning, Johnson urged his fellow Republicans to support the vote. He argued that it was crucial to halt any challenges to the tariffs until the Supreme Court delivers a ruling on President Trump's tariff powers, a decision that may arrive as late as June's end. This strategic delay, Johnson believes, is essential for maintaining the status quo until a more definitive judicial guidance is available.

Despite the internal resistance, the outcome of today's vote remains uncertain. Majority Leader Steve Scalise, when questioned about the likelihood of the procedural vote passing, evasively recommended that reporters direct their inquiries about vote coalitions to the whip, highlighting the ongoing uncertainty within the GOP ranks regarding this issue.

As the House prepares for this critical vote, the political stakes are high, with implications for both international trade policies and internal party unity. The decision to push forward with the vote not only reflects the complexities of tariff policies but also underscores the deep divisions that exist within the Republican Party on this issue.