SCOTUS Showdown: Is Trump’s Tariff War Illegal? Justices Test Presidential Power

The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments this week. The justices are reviewing the legality of President Trump’s wide-ranging tariffs. These import taxes affect many U.S. trading partners. The administration used an emergency law called IEEPA. It claims this law allows the president to “regulate importation.”

However, many justices expressed deep skepticism of this argument. They questioned whether this 1977 law permits such a vast use of power. The U.S. Constitution gives Congress the power to impose taxes, or tariffs. Critics argue the president cannot use an emergency to bypass Congress. Lower courts have already ruled against the administration.

This case is a major test of presidential authority. A ruling against the tariffs could reshape U.S. trade policy immediately. It could also force the government to refund billions of dollars in collected duties. The administration says it has alternative legal options. The Supreme Court’s final decision will come in the next few months.