President Donald Trump forcefully pushed back Monday against the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on tariffs, declaring that he does not need to seek fresh approval from Congress to impose them.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump rejected the idea that his tariff authority depends on new congressional authorization.
“As President, I do not have to go back to Congress to get approval of Tariffs,” Trump wrote. “It has already been gotten, in many forms, a long time ago! They were also just reaffirmed by the ridiculous and poorly crafted supreme court decision!”
The president’s comments come in response to a Friday majority opinion authored by Chief Justice John Roberts. In that opinion, Roberts wrote: “The President asserts the extraordinary power to unilaterally impose tariffs of unlimited amount, duration, and scope…he must identify clear congressional authorization to exercise it.”
Trump’s stance sharply contrasts with the Court’s language, as he maintains that the necessary authority has long been established and does not require additional legislative action. He argued that existing laws and prior authorizations already grant the executive branch the power to act on trade matters.
Earlier Monday, Trump took aim at the Court more broadly, calling it a “disgrace” in separate Truth Social posts. His frustration was evident as he continued to criticize the ruling and what he sees as judicial overreach into executive authority.
“The Supreme Court’s ruling on tariffs is deeply disappointing,” Trump said later during a press conference. “And I’m ashamed of certain members of the court, absolutely ashamed for not having the courage to do what’s right for our country.”
The president has long framed tariffs as a central tool in his economic and trade strategy, arguing they are necessary to protect American industries and counter what he views as unfair practices by foreign nations. Monday’s remarks underscore his determination to continue defending that authority, even in the face of a high-profile legal setback.
The Court’s majority opinion suggests limits on unilateral executive power when it comes to sweeping tariff actions, emphasizing the need for “clear congressional authorization.” Trump, however, insists that such authorization already exists and that the Court’s decision does not strip him of his ability to act.
The clash marks another chapter in an ongoing tug-of-war between the executive branch and the judiciary over the scope of presidential power. For Trump, the issue goes beyond tariffs alone, touching on what he views as the constitutional prerogatives of the presidency.
As the debate continues, Trump has made clear he intends to stand firm. His message Monday left little room for compromise: he believes the authority to impose tariffs has already been granted, and he does not plan to seek Congress’s approval again.
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