Live updates: Trump pans tariffs ruling, warns he can impose embargoes to ‘destroy’ trade
The Hill
by The Hill StaffFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Supreme Court delivered a significant blow to President Trump's tariff policies in a landmark decision, ruling that his tariffs on imported steel and aluminum are illegal without explicit congressional approval. This rare rebuke from the conservative-majority court came in a case many viewed as a test of executive power versus legislative authority. The justices, including Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Neil Gorsuch, found that Trump overstepped his constitutional boundaries by imposing tariffs based on national security concerns without proper authorization from Congress.
The ruling marks one of the biggest cases decided by the court in recent years and sets an important precedent for future trade policies. Trump had argued that the tariffs were necessary to protect U.S. industries and national security, but the court dismissed this argument, emphasizing that only Congress has the authority to levy taxes or impose tariffs. This decision could have far-reaching implications for how future administrations handle trade negotiations and international relations.
The outcome of the case is a significant loss for Trump, who often relied on executive actions to advance his policy agenda. The Supreme Court’s rebuke comes at a time when Trump is already facing challenges in other areas, including ongoing investigations and political battles over his policies. The ruling also underscores the delicate balance between executive authority and congressional oversight, raising questions about how future presidents will navigate similar trade disputes.
For readers interested in politics and policy, this decision highlights the ongoing tension between the branches of government and its impact on U.S. trade strategy. It also serves as a reminder that even with a conservative-majority court, presidential actions can face legal challenges when they exceed constitutional limits. As the U.S. continues to
Verticals
politicsnews
Originally published on The Hill on 2/20/2026