NATIONAL: Trump Gains Edge Again on Tariff Powers
Another Court Ruling Favors Trump’s Tariff Implementation
Appeals Court Halts Lower Court’s Suspension
In a significant legal development, a U.S. appeals court has stayed the ruling of the Trade Court that had earlier blocked the implementation of tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump. This decision effectively revives the government’s authority to proceed with tariff enforcement while legal proceedings continue.
Petitioners and Government Directed to Respond
Following the stay, the court directed petitioners challenging the tariffs to submit their responses by June 5. Government officials have been given until June 9 to file their arguments. The case revolves around the legality and scope of the executive powers used by Trump to impose sweeping tariffs on several countries.
Tariffs Imposed Under ‘Liberation Day’ Proclamation
Trump announced these tariffs on April 2, invoking ‘Liberation Day’ as a symbolic justification. The move sparked widespread legal backlash, with multiple petitions filed in the U.S. Court of International Trade in New York. Petitioners argued that Trump exceeded his constitutional authority and was unilaterally steering U.S. trade policy.
Trade Court Referenced Emergency Powers Act
Earlier, the Trade Court had ruled that tariffs could only be imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act in actual emergency scenarios. As such, it temporarily blocked Trump’s tariffs, questioning whether his justifications met the legal threshold for economic sanctions.
Trump Administration Defends Tariff Powers
The Trump administration, in its appeal, emphasized ongoing trade negotiations with several countries. It cited a July 7 deadline to finalize deals and described the situation as highly sensitive. Officials argued that tariffs were instrumental in advancing strategic deals, particularly with China, and in de-escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.
Court Dismisses Strategic Claims
Despite these arguments, the appeals court declined to accept the broader strategic claims made by Trump’s team. Assertions that tariff authority enabled a ceasefire between India and Pakistan or improved trade leverage with China were dismissed by the court as speculative and unsupported by direct evidence.