Donald Trump has asked the US Supreme Court to protect his tariff program. He seeks to overturn a ruling that declared his wide-ranging trade duties illegal.
Fight over presidential authority
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 on the line
The case could disrupt Trump’s trade and foreign policy plans. It could also force the US to return billions collected through 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, saying trade imbalances harmed US manufacturing and threatened national security.
Enforcement delayed for appeal
Although the appeals court ruled against Trump, it postponed enforcement to allow time for appeal. “The stakes in this case could not be higher,” Solicitor General John Sauer wrote in Wednesday’s filing. He argued the ruling disrupted key 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 the lawsuits, saying 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 fast resolution for our clients.” If the Supreme Court rejects review, the ruling takes effect on October 14.
Previous legal 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 filed by small firms and a coalition of states. In April, Trump signed executive orders creating a 10 percent baseline tariff and “reciprocal” tariffs on more than 90 countries.
Global impact
The appeals court also struck down tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China. Trump argued they were necessary to curb drug imports. Other duties, including those on steel and aluminum, remain in effect. They rely on a separate presidential authority.
