Trump Administration Scrambles to Pick Up the Pieces of Broken Tariffs

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by Ana Swanson

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Trump administration is scrambling to revive its tariff program after the Supreme Court ruled against it, calling the policy illegal. This decision has left the administration searching for alternative strategies to implement tariffs that align with existing trade laws. The new approach will likely result in a more complex and time-consuming process, as officials work to establish tariffs that comply with legal standards. Unlike the previous system, which allowed for broader discretion, these new tariffs may be imposed on a per-country, per-trade issue, or per-product basis, potentially altering the dynamics of winners and losers in international trade. Internal friction has emerged within the administration as key agencies, including the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) and the Commerce Department, compete for control over the implementation process. Officials are under pressure to satisfy President Trump's demand for swift and punitive tariffs, despite the legal constraints. USTR officials have already initiated new investigations targeting major trading partners, focusing on issues like excess industrial capacity in Asian countries. These efforts aim to reconstruct the tariff program while navigating a more rigid legal framework. Jamieson Greer, the U.S. Trade Representative, emphasized that the administration remains committed to its trade policies, even as it adapts to changing legal tools. He suggested that the new approach would still provide durable solutions, though with less flexibility than before. The outcome of these efforts will determine whether the Trump administration can maintain its aggressive trade stance or faces significant limitations in enforcing its economic agenda. This situation is closely watched by economists and industry leaders, who are assessing how the new tariffs might reshape global trade dynamics and impact U.S. manufacturing sectors. The stakes are high, as the success of this effort could influence international relations, market stability, and the broader economy. Ultimately, the administration's ability to reimpose tariffs without violating legal boundaries will be crucial in fulfilling Trump's campaign promises and preserving his economic agenda. As the process unfolds, stakeholders across industries and governments worldwide are closely monitoring developments that could reshape the future of trade policy.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/23/2026