In a move that stunned Washington but won’t slow him down, President Donald Trump is battling back after a federal court temporarily blocked his signature tariff strategy—one of the boldest and most effective economic tools in his America First arsenal.
The ruling, handed down by the U.S. Court of International Trade, challenged Trump’s authority to impose broad tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). But make no mistake: Trump isn’t backing down.
“These tariffs were never about politics—they were about protecting American jobs, manufacturing, and national security,” said White House spokesperson Kush Desai. “Trade deficits have gutted our towns and communities for decades. President Trump is using every legal lever to fix that.”
Trump’s so-called “Liberation Day” tariffs were a power move, putting pressure on nations that for years took advantage of weak American trade policy. From China to Mexico, Trump made it clear: either deal fairly or pay the price.
While the court attempted to limit his emergency powers, the president still retains the authority under the 1974 Trade Act to impose 15% tariffs for up to 150 days, without congressional approval. And under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, Trump’s steel, aluminum, and auto tariffs remain firmly in place due to national security concerns.
This setback is far from a defeat. Trump’s legal team has already filed for appeal, and the Supreme Court could ultimately decide the matter. Until then, the president is focused on completing what he started: rebuilding American industry and bringing jobs back to the United States.
“We’re restoring fairness to global trade,” Trump said. “For too long, others won, and America lost. That ends under my watch.”
The fight continues—and Trump is just getting started.
