WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court ruled Friday that President Donald Trump exceeded his authority by using emergency powers to impose sweeping tariffs on global imports, dealing a major blow to the administration’s economic agenda.
In a 6-3 decision, the justices held that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act does not grant the president the power to levy broad taxes on foreign goods. Chief Justice John Roberts, writing for the majority, emphasized that the Constitution vests taxing authority solely in Congress, not the executive branch.
The ruling invalidates a core pillar of the president’s trade policy, which had sparked legal challenges from businesses arguing the duties created economic uncertainty.
Justices Samuel Alito, Clarence Thomas and Brett Kavanaugh dissented, arguing the actions were lawful under existing statutes.
While the administration may pursue alternative trade measures, the decision forces an immediate reevaluation of the current tariff framework and its impact on supply chains.
