Is it Possible for Trump to Cancel the IRA?

On Apr 22, 2024

TL/DR –

Donald Trump has expressed interest in repealing the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), Biden’s signature climate initiative, as have some Republicans in Congress. However, repealing the Act would require Republican majorities in both the Senate and the House, which is described as difficult due to the GOP’s struggles to pass legislation and the fact that the IRA supports billions of dollars of investment in Red States. Although unlikely due to these barriers, the possibility of repealing the IRA remains, which would be a disaster for climate policy.

Is Trump Able to Revoke the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)?

Possibly, but chances are slim.

The IRA is a primary environmental initiative under Biden’s administration, characterized by its massive reductions in carbon emissions. Despite opposition from Trump and certain Republicans, repealing it could prove challenging.

Significant hurdles include acquiring Republican majorities in the Senate and House—achieving the latter seems unlikely given the GOP’s current struggles with legislation. Moreover, the IRA is fostering billions in investments in Republican-led states, providing a strong motive to maintain the law, as argued by Evan George and I in our study.

However, Republican ideology often overrides policy considerations, as seen when they nearly repealed Obamacare despite potential harm to their states. Additionally, revoking the IRA could compensate for lost revenue from potential tax cuts, both of which could be done via a filibuster-proof “reconciliation” procedure in the Senate.

In conclusion, while Trump repealing the IRA is improbable, it isn’t impossible and would be detrimental for climate policy if it occurred.

Is it Possible for Trump to Cancel the IRA?

TL/DR –

Is Trump Able to Revoke the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)?

Possibly, but chances are slim.

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