Trump Responds After Court Declares His Signature Tariffs “Unconstitutional”

A U.S. federal court just handed Trump one of his biggest legal defeats yet.

His signature tariff policy has been ruled unconstitutional and, as reported by Newsner, the president isn’t taking it quietly.

Court Strikes Down Sweeping Tariffs

A 7–4 decision from the U.S. Court of Appeals has ruled that Donald Trump’s expansive tariff policy is unconstitutional, triggering a furious backlash from the president.

The ruling challenges one of the defining features of Trump’s presidency — the so-called “reciprocal tariffs” he introduced on “Liberation Day” in April.

These tariffs were broad and aggressive, hitting nearly every country and justified by Trump as a way to correct America’s trade deficit.

Presidential Overreach at the Heart of the Ruling

However, the court determined that Trump overstepped his authority by unilaterally declaring national emergencies in order to impose blanket tariffs without congressional approval.

While the decision doesn’t impact existing industry-specific tariffs, like those on cars, steel, and aluminum, it targets the broad global tariffs Trump introduced through executive powers.

For now, the tariffs remain in place, as the court left the door open for the administration to appeal to the Supreme Court.

Trump’s Immediate Outburst

Trump wasted no time in firing back.

In a Truth Social post, the president called the appeals court “highly partisan” and claimed the ruling, if enforced, would “destroy” America.

“ALL TARIFFS ARE STILL IN EFFECT! … If these Tariffs ever went away, it would be a total disaster for the Country. It would make us financially weak, and we have to be strong,” Trump wrote.

A Familiar Message

He added that tariffs remain the “best tool” for protecting American workers and industries, especially heading into Labor Day weekend, invoking his familiar “Made in America” mantra.

Economic and Legal Fallout

The ruling could have massive financial implications, including the possibility that the government would have to refund billions in tariffs collected under the now-invalidated order.

Analysts say the court’s decision casts serious doubt on the legality of sweeping trade moves by executive order, something that has long allowed presidents to bypass Congress in the name of national security.

Critics Warn of Consumer Price Hikes

Meanwhile, critics say Trump’s use of tariffs, especially on everyday consumer goods, has strained global supply chains and raised prices for American families.

With markets already jittery over international trade tensions, this ruling adds a new layer of uncertainty.

Will the Supreme Court Step In?

The administration is expected to challenge the decision at the Supreme Court, which could keep the tariffs in place for many more months.

Trump, clearly anticipating a legal showdown, doubled down on his message:

“Now, with the help of the United States Supreme Court, we will use [tariffs] to the benefit of our Nation, and Make America Rich, Strong, and Powerful Again!”

Supporters vs. Critics: The Tariff Debate Continues

Supporters say the tariffs are long overdue and necessary to stop foreign competitors — especially China — from undercutting American manufacturers. But others warn the policy has been economically reckless and legally shaky from the start.

With the 2026 midterms looming, Trump appears determined to keep tariffs at the center of his campaign, even as the courts push back.