Federal Court Rules Trump’s Sweeping Tariffs Lacked Legal Authority

A federal appeals court has ruled that former President Donald Trump‘s broad tariffs were illegal. The decision came from the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit on Friday. The court found Trump overstepped his authority with the trade policies.

The ruling stated the 1977 law used did not grant unlimited power to impose tariffs. However, the court did not immediately cancel the existing tariffs.

Judges Challenge the Basis of Widespread Tariff Policy

The court’s 7-4 decision upheld a prior ruling from a New York trade court. Judges concluded Trump misapplied the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. This law is meant for national emergencies, not general trade policy.

According to the Associated Press, the judges wrote Congress did not intend to grant the president unlimited tariff authority. The dissent argued the law’s delegation of power was constitutional. This split opinion sets the stage for a Supreme Court appeal.

Trump imposed these sweeping tariffs back in April. He called the day “Liberation Day.” The policy targeted nearly all US trading partners.

White House Vows to Appeal Tariff Decision to Supreme Court

The Trump administration reacted strongly to the legal setback. Trump himself stated the ruling would “literally destroy the United States of America” if it stands. He made these comments on his Truth Social platform.

He argued that removing the tariffs would be a disaster for the country. Trump vowed to fight for ultimate victory in the Supreme Court. A White House spokesman said the president acted lawfully.

Revenue from these tariffs has grown significantly. It now totals $159 billion. The Justice Department warned that revoking them could cause financial harm.

This legal battle over presidential trade powers is far from over and will likely be decided by the nation’s highest court.

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What did the court actually rule on Trump’s tariffs?

The court ruled that Trump overstepped his legal authority. It found the 1977 law he used did not allow for such broad tariffs. The tariffs were deemed mostly illegal.

Are the tariffs being removed immediately?

No, the court did not halt the tariffs right away. This gives the Trump administration time to file an appeal. The policies remain in effect for now.

What was Trump’s response to the ruling?

Trump called the court’s decision highly partisan. He stated the tariffs are vital for national strength. He promised to appeal to the Supreme Court.

How much revenue have the tariffs generated?

Tariff revenue has more than doubled compared to last year. It currently totals $159 billion. This significant sum is a key point in the legal debate.

What happens if the Supreme Court agrees with this ruling?

If upheld, the tariffs would likely be rolled back. This could reshape trade relations with many countries. It would also set a major precedent on presidential power.

Trusted Sources: Associated Press, Reuters, US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.