Washington D.C. – A swift rebuke from the Supreme Court on Friday has triggered a dramatic response from former President Donald Trump, who announced a new 10% global tariff on all countries just hours after the court struck down his previous sweeping tariffs. The ruling, a 6-3 decision, found that Trump had exceeded his authority in imposing the tariffs without Congressional approval.
The decision throws U.S. Trade policy into uncertainty, prompting an immediate and forceful reaction from the former president. Trump, speaking at the White House, reportedly expressed his “ashamed” feelings toward the justices who ruled against him, calling the decision “deeply disappointing,” according to the Associated Press. He has vowed to implement new tariffs under a different legal framework, specifically Section 122, and is exploring other avenues for imposing trade barriers.
The legal challenge centered on whether the president could unilaterally impose tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) without explicit authorization from Congress. Chief Justice John Roberts, writing for the majority, stated the Trump administration “points to no statute” authorizing the use of IEEPA for tariffs, adding that the president asserted “the extraordinary power to unilaterally impose tariffs of unlimited amount, duration and scope.” The court ultimately held that IEEPA does not authorize the president to impose tariffs.
The immediate fallout saw Trump grab to social media, announcing the new 10% tariff on “all countries” via his Truth Social platform. “It is my Great Honor to have just signed, from the Oval Office, a Global 10% Tariff on all Countries, which will be effective almost immediately,” he posted. This move comes despite the Supreme Court’s ruling and signals a continued commitment to protectionist trade policies.
Supreme Court Ruling and Trump’s Response
The Supreme Court’s decision on Friday marks a significant loss for Trump on an issue central to his economic agenda. The case stemmed from his administration’s implementation of “reciprocal tariffs” in April 2025, imposed on several countries under the emergency powers law. The court found these tariffs to be unlawful. The Associated Press reported that Trump had been anticipating the ruling and expressed frustration over the length of time it took for the court to reach a decision.
Although the ruling invalidates the previous sweeping tariffs, it does not affect sector-specific tariffs already in place on imports of steel, aluminum, and other products. Ongoing investigations that could lead to additional targeted tariffs are also still underway.
During a campaign stop in Rome, Georgia, on Thursday, Trump openly vented about the impending decision, stating he had been waiting “forever” for the court’s ruling. Julia Manchester, a White House Reporter for The Hill, noted that Trump views tariffs as a cornerstone of his economic policy. Manchester also pointed out that while Trump theoretically could pursue further tariffs through other means, there isn’t complete unity within the Republican Party on this issue, with some Republicans potentially relieved by the court’s decision.
Republican Reaction and Potential Challenges
Manchester’s assessment highlights a potential internal challenge for Trump as he seeks to implement further trade restrictions. The lack of complete Republican support could complicate efforts to push through new tariffs, even under alternative legal authorities. The reporter suggested that some Republicans may quietly welcome the Supreme Court’s decision, viewing it as a check on presidential power.
CNN reported that Trump “raged” at the Supreme Court following the ruling, branding the verdict a “disgrace.” This strong reaction underscores the importance Trump places on tariffs as a tool for economic leverage and his frustration with the legal setback.
The new 10% global tariff announced by Trump is likely to face further legal challenges, given the Supreme Court’s recent ruling. The legality of imposing such a broad tariff under Section 122, or any other legal authority, remains to be seen.
What to Watch Next
The coming weeks will be critical as the Biden administration and Congress assess the implications of the Supreme Court’s decision and Trump’s response. Further legal challenges to the new 10% tariff are anticipated, and the extent to which Trump can successfully implement his trade policies will depend on navigating these legal hurdles and securing support from within his own party. The situation remains fluid, and the future of U.S. Trade policy is uncertain.
What are your thoughts on the Supreme Court’s decision and Trump’s response? Share your opinions in the comments below.