Trump calls Supreme Court justices who ruled against tariffs ‘disloyal’
The Hill
by Julia ManchesterFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
President Trump has criticized Supreme Court justices who ruled against his tariffs, calling them "disloyal" and expressing shame over their decision. The ruling, which included two justices appointed by Trump himself, struck down the tariffs on imported steel and aluminum. In a sharp rebuke, Trump accused the court of being influenced by foreign interests and political movements, labeling their actions as unpatriotic and disloyal to the Constitution.
The case centered on Trump's 2018 decision to impose tariffs aimed at protecting U.S. industries, which were upheld by lower courts but ultimately overturned by a 5-4 Supreme Court majority. The justices ruled that the tariffs exceeded presidential authority under existing trade laws. Notably, Justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh, both appointees of Trump, joined the majority in striking down the tariffs.
This decision marks a significant defeat for Trump's trade policy, which he had long defended as essential to national security and economic protectionism. The ruling has sparked criticism from administration allies, who argue that the court overstepped its role by second-guessing executive branch decisions on matters of foreign policy.
The controversy highlights growing tensions between the executive and judicial branches under Trump's presidency. His comments reflect a broader pattern of challenging judicial decisions, particularly those that limit his policies or authority. Critics warn that such rhetoric could undermine public trust in the judiciary and set a dangerous precedent for future disputes over presidential powers.
For readers interested in politics, this story underscores the ongoing struggle between executive authority and constitutional constraints. It also raises questions about the independence of the judiciary and its ability to remain impartial in highly charged political environments. As Trump continues to push against established norms, the relationship between the branches of government remains a critical issue to watch.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/20/2026