U.S. President Donald Trump launched an intense verbal attack on the Supreme Court on Friday after a 6–3 decision invalidated his sweeping tariff program, signaling a new chapter in the political battle over American trade policy.
During a press engagement in Washington, Trump described the majority as “fools and lapdogs” and a “disgrace to our nation,” accusing them of siding with foreign interests and political critics in overturning what he called essential economic tools. The reaction came hours after the high court ruled his tariffs unlawful because they lacked clear congressional authorization under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.
Chief Justice John Roberts wrote the majority opinion, joined by conservative and liberal justices, finding that the 1977 law does not permit country-wide tariffs without explicit congressional approval. The decision also upheld earlier rulings from lower courts that Trump exceeded his authority by invoking emergency powers to impose levies during what he labeled a national economic crisis.
Democrats and consumer advocates praised the ruling as a win for constitutional checks and balances, while some Republicans expressed disappointment. The decision leaves unresolved how or if companies can secure refunds for tens of billions of dollars they have paid in duties.
Despite the setback, Trump has made clear he will pursue alternative measures to maintain tariffs as part of his trade agenda. Administration officials and legal experts suggest the White House may shift to other statutory authorities, including different codes that allow temporary levies or sector-specific tariffs targeting industries like steel and aluminum. This approach could replicate much of Trump’s previous tariff impact without the emergency powers the court rejected.
Global markets and trading partners are already reacting. European and British officials said their favourable trade relationships with the U.S. are unlikely to collapse, but they are watching closely how Washington pivots toward new trade barriers.
The ruling marks a pivotal moment in U.S. trade law, reinforcing congressional authority over tariffs while setting the stage for fresh battles over how and when the United States uses import levies to influence global commerce.
