WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Friday launched an attack on the U.S. Supreme Court after they ruled his tariffs are illegal, saying the justices are “disloyal to the Constitution.”
The justices issued a 6-3 ruling, saying Trump exceeded his authority when imposing sweeping tariffs, citing a 1977 law called the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
Trump suggested the majority was “swayed by foreign interests” and said the three Democratic appointees in the majority are “fools and lapdogs”.
“The Supreme Court’s ruling on tariffs is deeply disappointing, and I’m ashamed of certain members of the court, absolutely ashamed for not having the courage to do what’s right for our country,” Trump said in remarks at the White House.
Two justices in the majority — Justices Neil Gorsuch and Amy Coney Barrett — were appointed by Trump and have frequently ruled in his favor in other cases.
Trump could see the justices in person at his State of the Union address, which is being held on Tuesday.
“Barely. They are barely invited,” Trump said. “Three of them are invited. To be honest, I could care less if they come or not.”
Trump suggested without evidence that foreign interests have “undue influence” on the court.
“They have a lot of influence over the Supreme Court, whether it’s through fear or respect or friendships, I don’t know,” he added.
In response to a question from a reporter, Trump later addressed the votes taken by Barrett and Gorsuch.
“I think their decision was terrible. I think it’s an embarrassment to their families,” he said.
Trump outlined a new plan to impose his global tariffs — including signing executive orders.
“Other alternatives will now be used to replace the ones that the court incorrectly rejected,” Trump told reporters in the White House briefing room. “We have alternatives, great alternatives, could be more money. We’ll take in more money and we’ll be a lot stronger for it.”
Trump said he will sign an order to enact a 10% global tariff under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. He said those tariffs could take effect as early as Monday.
Those tariffs can only last for 150 days without congressional approval. When asked about that limitation, Trump claimed he could “do pretty much what we want to do.”
Countries can now begin asking for refunds, but it is not clear if the U.S. will pay the money back.
“It’s not discussed. We’ll end up being in court for the next five years,” Trump said, signaling he would not voluntarily pay out refunds.
