WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump announced plans to maintain tariffs despite a Supreme Court ruling that he overstepped his powers under the International Economic Emergency Powers Act (IEEPA). Trump criticized the six justices who decided the IEEPA does not grant the President authority to impose tariffs.
At a White House press conference, Trump expressed deep disappointment with the Supreme Court’s decision, particularly targeting Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Amy Coney Barrett, Neil Gorsuch, Ketanji Brown Jackson, Elena Kagan, and Sonia Sotomayor. He labeled their opposition to his tariff policies as “a disgrace to our nation” and “unpatriotic.”
In contrast, Justices Clarence Thomas and Brett Kavanaugh, along with Justice Samuel Alito, supported Trump’s stance through dissenting opinions. Notably, Barrett, Gorsuch, and Kavanaugh were appointed by Trump himself.
Trump affirmed that the ruling would not affect the tariffs under IEEPA as he plans to enforce similar taxes on imports using alternative legal authorities. “There are methods, practices, statutes, and authorities recognized by the entire Court and Congress that are stronger than IEEPA tariffs,” Trump stated.
He announced his intention to sign an order for a 10% global tariff under Section 122, in addition to existing tariffs. Trump did not commit to returning the billions collected from IEEPA tariffs, noting the ruling did not address this matter. “It has to get litigated for the next two years,” he remarked.
Trump mentioned he does not plan to request Congress to pass new laws for broader tariff authority, emphasizing his existing rights approved by Congress. He described the process as “a bit more complicated” but assured increased tariff collection.
On Tuesday night, Trump is set to address a joint session of Congress, likely attended by Supreme Court justices. He stated he “couldn’t care less” about their attendance, noting they are “barely” invited. Justices have the option to skip the session.
