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Court Rules Trump’s Emergency Tariffs Illegal
A federal appeals court has ruled that most of President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs—imposed under emergency powers—were illegal. The court concluded that these measures exceeded the authority granted by the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), which does not authorize the president to impose tariffs without explicit congressional approval. The decision reinforces that the power to levy tariffs lies constitutionally with Congress.
Tariffs Remain in Place for Now
Despite declaring them unlawful, the court allowed the tariffs to remain in effect temporarily. The ruling permits the administration time to seek review by the U.S. Supreme Court. The current injunction is expected to stay in place through mid-October.
Background of the Tariffs
During Trump’s second term, the administration introduced wide-ranging tariffs under the guise of emergency action. These included broad “reciprocal” levies on multiple countries and tariffs linked to trafficking threats. Critics argued that the measures lacked a valid national emergency basis and shifted economic pressure onto U.S. businesses and consumers.
Political and Legal Reactions
Trump strongly criticized the ruling, describing it as a “total disaster for the country” and signaling an intent to challenge the decision. Business groups and lawmakers are closely watching the next steps as the administration weighs an appeal to the Supreme Court.
