Letitia James takes victory lap after Supreme Court tariffs ruling
The Hill
by Sophie BramsFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
New York Attorney General Letitia James celebrated a significant legal win as the Supreme Court ruled against President Trump’s broad tariffs in a landmark 6-3 decision. The court struck down most of the tariffs, which Trump had imposed without congressional approval, marking a critical victory for the rule of law and the U.S. economy. James, a vocal critic of Trump, praised the ruling as a testament to the separation of powers and the importance of adhering to legal and constitutional norms.
The case centered on Trump’s 2018 decision to impose tariffs on imported steel and aluminum, which he justified based on national security concerns. However, Democratic lawmakers and several states argued that the tariffs exceeded presidential authority under the Trade Expansion Act of 1974, which requires congressional approval for such measures. The Supreme Court agreed, emphasizing that only Congress has the constitutional authority to regulate foreign commerce in this manner.
The ruling highlights a broader tension between executive overreach and judicial oversight in matters of trade and national policy. By striking down the tariffs, the court reaffirmed its role as a check on presidential power, particularly in areas traditionally reserved for legislative action. This decision sets an important precedent, signaling that even during times of political polarization, the judiciary remains committed to upholding constitutional balances.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/20/2026