Donald Trump Calls Supreme Court’s Tariff Ruling ‘Disgrace’, Says Backup Plan Ready

President Donald Trump sharply criticised the Supreme Court's landmark ruling that invalidated his global tariff measures.

Speaking at a White House breakfast on Friday morning, he described the judgment as a "disgrace" and indicated that his administration is prepared with an alternative strategy.

In a 6-3 verdict, the justices held that Trump's tariffs were not legally supported under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), a law that allows a president to regulate trade only in "unusual and extraordinary" situations tied to a declared national emergency.

US President Donald Trump has reacted sharply to the Supreme Court's decision that invalidated the wide-ranging tariffs imposed on several countries under emergency powers.

The ruling, which limits presidential authority over trade duties, has sparked political and economic debate in Washington and beyond.

Trump Reacts to Verdict

Calling the judgment a "disgrace", Trump said he already has an alternative strategy ready. According to reports, the president made the remarks soon after the ruling, indicating that the administration may explore other legal routes to continue its trade measures.

The decision came in a 6-3 verdict led by Chief Justice John Roberts, with the court backing a lower court finding that the president exceeded his authority while using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose tariffs.

What the Court Said

The Supreme Court concluded that the 1977 IEEPA law allows a president to regulate financial transactions and trade during emergencies but does not provide the power to levy tariffs. Chief Justice Roberts stated that while the law permits regulation of imports, it does not extend to imposing duties or taxes on goods.

Key points from the ruling:

• IEEPA does not authorise the president to impose tariffs
• Tariff powers rest with the US Congress
• Emergency powers cannot replace legislative approval

The ruling is expected to influence future trade policy and restrict how emergency laws can be used for economic measures.

Impact on Global Trade

Trump had introduced tariffs on multiple countries over the past year, including steep duties on key trading partners. India was among the nations affected, with tariffs once touching 50 per cent before a recent bilateral trade understanding reduced them significantly.

The court's decision could reshape ongoing trade negotiations and alter revenue projections tied to tariff collections. Analysts say it may also shift the balance of power back toward Congress in decisions involving large-scale economic actions.

While the Supreme Court ruling blocks the use of IEEPA for sweeping tariffs, the administration may explore other legal tools or seek congressional backing for future trade measures. Trump's reference to a "backup plan" suggests that policy adjustments could follow as the White House recalibrates its strategy after the court setback.