Trump withdrew endorsement of Rep. Jeff Hurd over tariff opposition
Hurd was one of six House Republicans who voted to overturn tariffs on Canada
Trump is now endorsing Hope Scheppelman, Hurd's primary challenger
Hurd defended his position by emphasizing his oath to the Constitution
Supreme Court later ruled the tariffs on Canada were illegal
📖 Full Retelling
President Trump has withdrawn his endorsement of Colorado Republican Rep. Jeff Hurd over the congressman's opposition to his tariff policy and is now backing his primary challenger Hope Scheppelman, following Hurd's vote to overturn U.S. tariffs on Canada on February 22, 2026. The move comes after Hurd was one of six House Republicans who voted this month to reject tariffs imposed on Canada under the International Economic Emergency Powers Act, which the Supreme Court later ruled were illegal. Trump took to social media to criticize Hurd as a 'RINO,' or Republican in name only, stating that the congressman 'is more interested in protecting Foreign Countries that have been ripping us off for decades than he is the United States of America.' The president emphasized that this was a difficult decision, noting he had only withdrawn an endorsement once before with former Alabama Congressman Mo Brooks. In response, Hurd defended his position by highlighting his oath to the Constitution and commitment to voting based on what's best for his district and the country's long-term strength, focusing on issues like energy production, supporting farmers, fiscal discipline, and veterans' affairs.
🏷️ Themes
Republican Party Politics, Trade Policy, Endorsements, Congressional Voting
Jeffrey Stephen Hurd (born August 15, 1979) is an American politician and lawyer from Colorado. A Republican, he is the member for Colorado's 3rd congressional district in the United States House of Representatives.
A tariff or import tax is a duty imposed by a national government, customs territory, or supranational union on imports of goods and is paid by the importer. Exceptionally, an export tax may be levied on exports of goods or raw materials and is paid by the exporter. Besides being a source of revenue...
President of the United States (2017–2021; since 2025)
Donald John Trump (born June 14, 1946) is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who is the 47th president of the United States. A member of the Republican Party, he served as the 45th president from 2017 to 2021.
Born into a wealthy New York City family, Trump graduated from the...
Trump's withdrawal of endorsement signals a shift in his support for Republican candidates who oppose his tariff policy. It highlights the growing divide within the GOP over trade measures and the influence of the former president on primary races. The move may impact Hurd's reelection prospects and the broader debate over U.S. trade strategy.
Context & Background
Trump has used endorsements to shape GOP primaries
Hurd voted to repeal tariffs on Canada, defying Trump's trade agenda
The Supreme Court ruled tariffs under the International Economic Emergency Powers Act illegal
Trump has previously withdrawn endorsements, such as for Mo Brooks
Tariff policy remains a key issue in Republican politics
What Happens Next
Hurd will likely face a tough primary challenge from Scheppelman, who has Trump's backing. The endorsement shift may influence other Republican incumbents to align more closely with Trump's trade stance. The outcome could reshape the GOP's approach to tariffs and trade policy in the upcoming election cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Trump withdraw his endorsement of Jeff Hurd?
Because Hurd voted to overturn tariffs on Canada, which contradicted Trump's trade policy.
Who is Hope Scheppelman?
A Navy veteran and critical care nurse running as Hurd's primary challenger, endorsed by Trump.
What does this mean for Hurd's reelection?
He may lose support from Trump and face a tougher primary, but he can still rely on his district's support.
How common is it for Trump to withdraw endorsements?
Trump has done it before, such as for Mo Brooks, indicating he reserves endorsements for candidates who align with his agenda.
Original Source
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