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Republican Defectors Challenge Trump, Threaten Midterm Unity

2/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A faction of Republican lawmakers defies U.S. President Donald Trump by challenging his authority on tariffs and causing unrest within the party.
Reps. Don Bacon and Dan Newhouse have voted against party lines, emboldened by their decision not to seek reelection.
GOP leaders warn that defections could hurt the party's chances in the upcoming midterms.
Speaker Mike Johnson struggles to maintain party unity with a slim majority.

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Story summary

A faction of Republican lawmakers defies U.S. President Donald Trump by challenging his authority on tariffs and causing unrest within the party.
Reps. Don Bacon and Dan Newhouse have voted against party lines, emboldened by their decision not to seek reelection.
GOP leaders warn that defections could hurt the party's chances in the upcoming midterms.
Speaker Mike Johnson struggles to maintain party unity with a slim majority.