Former U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that a recent Supreme Court ruling limiting presidential powers on imposing tariffs could pose a threat to national security. Speaking to reporters, Trump argued that the decision would restrict a president’s ability to act swiftly during economic or security emergencies, especially when dealing with what he described as “unfair trade practices” by rival nations.
The Supreme Court ruling, delivered earlier this week, held that the executive branch must adhere to stricter congressional oversight before imposing certain categories of tariffs. The judgment emphasised that tariff measures cannot be used as an all-purpose tool of foreign policy without clear legislative backing.
Trump criticised the ruling as “a major mistake,” saying that presidents need flexibility to respond to hostile economic actions. He claimed that during his tenure, tariff authority allowed the U.S. to negotiate better trade terms and counter threats from adversarial countries.
Legal experts, however, say the ruling reinforces the constitutional balance of power, preventing the executive from bypassing Congress on major economic decisions. Supporters of the judgment argue that unchecked tariff powers could be misused and lead to volatility in global markets.
The Biden administration has not directly commented on Trump’s remarks but noted that the government is reviewing the implications of the Court’s decision. With trade disputes continuing to shape global economic relations, the ruling is expected to spark fresh debate in Washington over presidential authority and the future of U.S. trade policy.
