Supreme Court To Decide On Trump's Tariffs: Here's What To Know

The Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on November 5 regarding the legality of President Trump's global tariffs. These cases, involving tariffs on countries like Mexico, Canada, and China, were enacted under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The core issue is whether the IEEPA authorizes the president to impose tariffs, considering the Constitution grants tariff power to Congress. Lower courts have differed, with some ruling the tariffs unlawful, citing the absence of "tariffs" in the IEEPA. The Trump administration argues the law's plain text allows for the tariffs, citing historical precedent and the president's authority in foreign affairs. Potential implications are vast, affecting the nation's economy and the scope of presidential power on trade. The government defends the tariffs by highlighting the $90 billion in tariff revenue collected under the emergency law. The Supreme Court may also consider the Major Questions Doctrine, which requires clear congressional authorization for policies of major economic or political import. The court will consider separation of powers concerns, impacting the president's role in trade regulation.