Senate leaders hint at vote against California waivers

By Kelsey Brugger | 05/07/2025 06:50 AM EDT

A GOP social-media post about the clean-car rules follows warnings from Democrats.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) speaks during a press conference.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) speaking during a press conference at the Capitol. Francis Chung/POLITICO

Senate Republicans are hinting they will take up legislation to undo Biden-era waivers for California’s new clean car rules, including a leadership post on social media Tuesday.

But Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota, who will ultimately decide whether to call a vote on House-passed resolutions, says discussions remain open.

The Senate Republican Conference, in a post on the social media site X, suggested the party would target waivers that allow California to push for electric vehicles and other zero-emission cars.

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The post came after Democrats warned the majority against pulling the trigger, arguing the resolutions would run afoul of a rule-killing law.

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