‘If SC kills tariffs…’: Trump warns of economic collapse ahead of Supreme Court hearing
Former President Donald Trump warned on Tuesday that the United States would be “virtually defenseless” if the Supreme Court overturns several of his tariffs.
The warning came a day before the Court is set to hear arguments on the legality of a major part of Trump’s trade policy.
White House officials downplayed the possible impact of a loss, saying the administration could reimpose the tariffs through other trade powers. Still, Trump has repeatedly claimed that removing the tariffs would harm the economy, even though the U.S. operated for decades without such high trade barriers.
Trump wrote on Truth Social, “Tomorrow’s United States Supreme Court case is, literally, LIFE OR DEATH for our Country.” He added, “With a Victory, we have tremendous, but fair, Financial and National Security. Without it, we are virtually defenseless against other Countries who have, for years, taken advantage of us.”
Trump also pointed to a strong stock market and claimed that tariffs helped boost respect for the U.S. abroad. He credited them with securing better trade deals and protecting American industries.
On Wednesday, the Supreme Court will hear arguments over whether Trump exceeded his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) when he imposed the tariffs. The case challenges the broad use of a 50-year-old law that had never before been used to levy import taxes.
The contested tariffs include those placed on China, Mexico, and Canada, as well as global duties announced on Liberation Day. The plaintiffs argue that the IEEPA does not grant presidents the power to set trade taxes.
Justice Department lawyers argue that the tariffs were legal, saying they gave Trump tools to address trade deficits and other economic emergencies.
A ruling is not expected for several weeks and may be delayed until next year. The outcome could either restrict presidential power or expand the authority of Trump and future presidents to bypass Congress through emergency measures.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said he plans to attend the hearing, telling Fox News on Monday that he hopes to be “in the front row” for the arguments.
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