Donald Trump has turned to the US Supreme Court to protect his tariff program. He seeks to overturn a ruling that struck down his broad trade duties as illegal.
Presidential power in question
The administration filed its petition on Wednesday night. It urges the court to decide quickly whether a president can impose tariffs without Congress. Last week, the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals ruled 7-4 against Trump. Judges said only Congress has the authority to set import duties.
Billions at risk
The case could disrupt Trump’s trade and foreign policy agenda. It may also force the US to return billions in collected tariffs. Trump defended his actions under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The law allows presidential measures against “unusual and extraordinary” threats. In April, he declared an economic emergency, claiming trade imbalances harmed US manufacturing and threatened national security.
Enforcement paused for appeal
Although the appeals court ruled against Trump, it postponed enforcement to allow time for an appeal. “The stakes in this case could not be higher,” Solicitor General John Sauer wrote in Wednesday’s filing. He said the ruling disrupted critical trade negotiations and created legal uncertainty. He warned it weakened the president’s ability to prevent an economic and foreign policy crisis.
Small businesses push back
Small companies filed lawsuits, arguing the tariffs threaten their survival. Their lawyers remain confident. “These unlawful duties are harming small businesses,” said Jeffrey Schwab of the Liberty Justice Center. “We hope for a swift resolution for our clients.” If the Supreme Court rejects review, the ruling takes effect on October 14.
Previous court setbacks
In May, the Court of International Trade in New York also ruled the tariffs unlawful. That judgment was paused during appeals. The lawsuits were brought by small firms and a coalition of states. In April, Trump signed executive orders imposing a 10 percent base tariff and “reciprocal” tariffs on more than 90 countries.
International implications
The appeals court also struck down tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China. Trump argued they were necessary to block drug imports. Other duties, including those on steel and aluminum, remain in effect. They rely on a separate presidential authority.
