Why It Matters

International Motors LLC, a two-decade lobbying veteran, is amplifying its trade advocacy by hiring Checkmate Government Relations LLC. The move signals urgency as Congress debates tariff policy and emissions standards affecting the automotive sector.

International Motors faces immediate challenges from the 25% tariff on imported passenger vehicles that took effect April 3, 2025, with extended tariffs on medium and heavy-duty trucks beginning November 1, 2025. These tariffs are reshaping supply chains and raising costs industry-wide.

By the Numbers

International Motors LLC has actively lobbied since 2003, filing 291 disclosures and spending approximately $30.1 million on federal advocacy. The company maintains a substantial in-house lobbying operation accounting for $24 million, supplemented by external firms handling specialized policy areas.

The Checkmate team includes Muhammad Usman Rahim, who previously lobbied for the company and served as Staff Assistant to Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Frederick Watson Vaughan, who brings tariff expertise from work with HanesBrands Inc.

The Agenda

International Motors is lobbying specifically on automotive import/export, trade, and tariff issues. The company’s advocacy history includes EPA emissions standards for heavy-duty trucks, defense appropriations, corporate tax reform, and NAFTA renegotiation.

This engagement signals strategic intensification on tariff advocacy as Congress considers H.R.735 – United States Reciprocal Trade Act and H.R.2424 – Modern, Clean, and Safe Trucks Act, which would repeal the 12% federal excise tax on heavy trucks. Competitors like Cummins Inc. and Mercedes-Benz USA LLC are similarly engaged, creating an intensely competitive advocacy environment.

Broader Context

Congress is reshaping automotive trade policy amid historically high tariffs. Average U.S. tariff rates have risen to 27% from 2.5% since January 2025—the highest level in over a century. The Center for Automotive Research reports tariffs created $107.7 billion in increased costs for U.S. automakers.

Simultaneously, Congress advances contradictory initiatives. The Trump administration is rolling back EPA vehicle emissions standards, while 102 lawmakers demand the EPA maintain emissions standards.

USMCA renegotiation adds pressure, as the agreement faces sunset review requiring renewal by July 1, 2026.

The Bottom Line

International Motors’ engagement with Checkmate reflects a volatile policy environment where tariff regimes are now in effect, USMCA faces renegotiation, and Congress simultaneously advances emissions deregulation and excise tax relief. The company joins competitors in actively lobbying these interconnected issues, positioning itself to influence outcomes before key legislative windows close.

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