Trump lashes out at Barrett, Gorsuch for ruling against tariffs
The Hill
by Elliott DavisFebruary 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
President Trump has expressed strong frustration over Supreme Court Justices Amy Coney Barrett and Neil Gorsuch, both of whom he appointed, after they joined the majority in a 6-3 decision striking down most of his wide-reaching tariff policies. This ruling, handed down earlier Friday, marked a significant defeat for Trump’s aggressive trade agenda, with Barrett and Gorsuch aligning with the court’s three liberal justices. The decision has sparked heated criticism from Trump, who continues to view the two justices as key figures in his conservative judicial appointments but has now been left disappointed by their stance.
The case centered on Trump’s efforts to impose tariffs on imported steel and aluminum under national security concerns, a policy that faced strong opposition from industries reliant on these imports. The Supreme Court ruled that most of the tariffs exceeded the administration’s authority, effectively limiting the president’s ability to unilaterally implement such measures. While Barrett and Gorsuch have generally been seen as reliable conservative voices, their decision to side with the majority highlights the complexities of judicial reasoning and underscores the broader debate over executive authority in trade policy.
This development is particularly significant for several reasons. First, it marks a rare moment of disagreement between Trump and his own appointees, raising questions about the administration’s ability to maintain control over its judicial nominees. Second, the ruling has important implications for U.S. trade relations, as it signals that courts may impose limits on presidential authority in matters of international commerce. Finally, the decision could have political ramifications ahead of the 2020 election, as Trump and his supporters argue about the role of an independent judiciary versus partisan appointees.
For readers interested in politics and constitutional law, this case offers a window into ongoing debates over executive power, judicial independence, and the balance of authority between branches of government. The outcome
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/21/2026