The Supreme Court strikes down Donald Trump’s tariffs
The Economist
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Supreme Court has ruled that most of President Donald Trump’s tariffs were illegal, delivering a significant blow to his trade policies. In a 6-3 decision in *Learning Resources v. Trump*, the justices found that Trump had overstepped presidential authority by invoking the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose tariffs without congressional approval. The court’s majority opinion, written by Chief Justice John Roberts, invalidated the bulk of the tariffs, though some may still stand if they align with genuine national emergencies.
This decision marks a major shift in the balance of power over trade policies. Trump had argued that IEEPA granted him broad discretion to act unilaterally during crises, but the court rejected this interpretation, emphasizing that Congress retains authority over economic matters. The ruling underscores the importance of checks and balances in ensuring that presidential actions align with constitutional principles.
For businesses, the decision brings clarity and stability to international trade relations. The撤销of these tariffs reduces uncertainty for companies operating globally, as they can now rely on more predictable trade policies. The case also sets a precedent for future administrations, limiting the president’s ability to impose tariffs without congressional oversight.
The outcome highlights the courts’ role in upholding constitutional limits on executive
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Originally published on The Economist on 2/20/2026