Trump’s Tariffs Hit a Legal Wall
Donald Trump’s tariffs have dominated headlines for months. But now, a U.S. court has struck them down as “unconstitutional” and illegal. The ruling sent the president into a fiery outburst.
Court Rejects Trump’s Authority
For months, Trump’s presidency revolved around tariffs. Branded as “reciprocal tariffs,” they were rolled out on what he called “Liberation Day” in April, shaking global trade ever since.
Now, the U.S. Court of Appeals dealt a major blow. In a 7–4 decision, the court ruled Trump lacked the authority to declare national emergencies and unilaterally impose tariffs worldwide. The ruling upheld a previous U.S. trade court decision from May but allowed the administration to appeal to the Supreme Court. For now, the tariffs remain in effect.
The decision specifically targeted Trump’s sweeping tariffs on nearly every country. It did not affect tariffs on select industries like cars, steel, and aluminum, which remain intact. Trump justified the broad tariffs by citing America’s massive trade deficit.
Trump Fires Back
The court’s ruling marked a sharp legal rebuke. But Trump reacted immediately. On Truth Social, he wrote:
“ALL TARIFFS ARE STILL IN EFFECT! Today a Highly Partisan Appeals Court incorrectly said that our Tariffs should be removed, but they know the United States of America will win in the end. If these Tariffs ever went away, it would be a total disaster for the Country. It would make us financially weak, and we have to be strong.”
He doubled down, warning that letting the ruling stand could “literally destroy” America. Trump insisted tariffs defend American workers and criticized past politicians for allowing foreign nations to dominate U.S. industries.
Financial Stakes and Global Anxiety
Trump stressed tariffs protect jobs and support American-made products:
“At the start of this Labor Day weekend, we should all remember that TARIFFS are the best tool to help our Workers, and support Companies that produce great MADE IN AMERICA products. Now, with the help of the United States Supreme Court, we will use them to the benefit of our Nation, and Make America Rich, Strong, and Powerful Again!”
Critics warn the court’s ruling could trigger massive financial consequences, possibly forcing the administration to refund billions already collected. Global markets are uneasy, fearing higher prices for U.S. consumers if the trade war continues.
The Big Question
Are tariffs a necessary tool to protect American jobs—or a dangerous move that could derail the economy? The debate continues.