WASHINGTON — In a striking defiance of judicial authority, former President Donald Trump announced his intention to preserve existing tariff structures through alternative legal mechanisms after the Supreme Court declared his previous use of presidential powers unconstitutional.
The landmark 6-3 ruling determined that Trump had overstepped his authority under the International Economic Emergency Powers Act (IEEPA) when implementing tariffs. During an impassioned press conference at the White House briefing room, Trump delivered scathing criticism toward the six justices who formed the majority opinion, expressing profound disappointment in their decision.
“The Supreme Court’s ruling on tariffs is deeply disappointing, and I’m ashamed of certain members of the Court—absolutely ashamed—for lacking the courage to do what’s right for our nation,” Trump stated. His condemnation extended specifically to Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Amy Coney Barrett, Neil Gorsuch, Ketanji Brown Jackson, Elena Kagan, and Sonia Sotomayor, whom he described as “a disgrace to our nation” and “unpatriotic and disloyal to our Constitution.”
Despite the judicial setback, Trump revealed plans to implement identical tariff measures under Section 122 authorities, asserting that alternative statutory frameworks provide even stronger presidential powers than IEEPA. He announced intentions to sign an executive order imposing a 10% global tariff overlay atop existing tariff structures.
When questioned about restitution for billions collected under the invalidated tariffs, Trump indicated no immediate plans for reimbursement, noting that the Court’s opinion omitted specific guidance on redress. The matter would likely require extended litigation, potentially spanning years.
The former president dismissed any necessity for congressional authorization, maintaining that existing statutes provide sufficient authority for tariff implementation. This development occurs amidst preparations for Trump’s upcoming address to a joint session of Congress, where several Supreme Court justices traditionally attend. Trump expressed indifference toward their potential attendance, suggesting they were “barely” still invited despite having no constitutional authority to exclude legislative branch guests.