Republicans rally behind Trump's tariffs

(The Center Square) – One group of Americans strongly supports President Donald Trump's use of tariffs: attendees of the annual Conservative Political Action Conference. As the 2026 election approaches, tariffs have become a controversial issue, with many Republican voters rallying behind them even as most Americans remain doubtful. The divide could play a role in how Americans decide the midterm elections. The CPAC conference is often viewed as an early indicator of Republican sentiment. Although Trump did not attend this year’s late-March gathering, he followed the proceedings and shared the results of several CPAC straw poll questions, including one on tariffs, on social media. A survey conducted by McLaughlin & Associates asked CPAC attendees if they supported Trump's "use of tariffs to reduce America’s trade deficit and create a more level playing field for American workers and businesses." Overall, 91% of respondents