US EditionTrump’s tariff authority imposed under emergency powers challenged as appeals court expresses skepticism
UNITED STATES, AUG 1 – The court questioned Trump’s use of emergency powers under IEEPA to impose tariffs addressing trade deficits and fentanyl, with U.S. tariffs now averaging over 18%, Yale researchers said.
- On July 31, a panel of judges on the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit voiced skepticism over President Donald Trump’s emergency tariff authority, a day before higher duties begin.
- Earlier this year, President Donald Trump invoked IEEPA to impose tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico, citing national emergencies from the trade deficit and fentanyl crisis, with Justice Department attorneys defending the measures.
- During the full eleven-member panel session, Circuit Judge Jimmie Reyna observed that IEEPA doesn’t even mention tariffs, while Brett Schumate acknowledged no president has previously interpreted the law this way.
- With no immediate decision, the appellate court paused a lower court’s order and allowed the tariffs to stay in effect temporarily after nearly two hours.
- Regardless of the appeals court’s decision, legal experts say the case will likely reach the U.S. Supreme Court and shape future U.S. trade policy.
12 Articles
12 Articles
Trump’s tariff authority imposed under emergency powers challenged as appeals court expresses skepticism
As Trump races to finalise trade deals before his August 1 deadline, his use of emergency powers to justify tariffs faces pushback in court. While Trump insists tariffs are vital to US survival and security, judges questioned the legality of invoking emergency law not designed for trade actions.
Federal judges skeptical of Trump’s legal basis for emergency import taxes
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, pictured July 31, 2025. (Photo by Ashley Murray/States Newsroom)WASHINGTON — Judges on the U.S. Appeals Court for the Federal Circuit questioned the legality of President Donald Trump’s sweeping emergency tariffs Thursday as the White House pushes on with its Aug. 1 deadline for import taxes at levels not seen since the 1930s. The case originated from consolidated lawsuits brought by a handful o…
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 43% of the sources lean Left
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
