Fact Check: Judge ruled Trump's tariffs unlawful under emergency powers law.

Published June 18, 2025

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VERDICT

Partially True

# Fact Check: Judge Ruled Trump's Tariffs Unlawful Under Emergency Powers Law ## What We Know A recent ruling by the U.S. Court of International Trad...

Fact Check: Judge Ruled Trump's Tariffs Unlawful Under Emergency Powers Law

What We Know

A recent ruling by the U.S. Court of International Trade determined that President Trump's tariffs, imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), were unlawful. The court stated that the IEEPA does not grant the president "unbounded" authority to impose tariffs, emphasizing that the power to levy tariffs is constitutionally allocated to Congress (NPR). This ruling was made by a three-judge panel and has been described as surprising by many observers (Reuters).

However, the ruling was temporarily stayed by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, allowing the tariffs to remain in place while the legal proceedings continue (NPR). The court's decision has sparked a significant legal battle regarding the extent of presidential powers in imposing tariffs during national emergencies.

Analysis

The ruling from the U.S. Court of International Trade is significant as it challenges the executive branch's interpretation of its powers under the IEEPA. The court's opinion highlighted that the tariffs imposed by Trump exceeded the authority granted to him under this act, which is intended to address threats during national emergencies (AP News). The judges noted that the Constitution explicitly allocates tariff powers to Congress, thus limiting the president's authority in this area (NPR).

While the ruling has been widely reported, it is essential to consider the context of the ongoing legal proceedings. The stay issued by the appellate court means that, for now, the tariffs remain in effect, and the final outcome of the legal challenges is still uncertain (Reuters). This situation illustrates the complexities of the legal system and the potential for further appeals, which could ultimately lead to a Supreme Court decision.

The sources used in this analysis are credible, including major news outlets such as NPR and Reuters, which provide thorough coverage of legal matters. However, the evolving nature of the case means that the information may change as new developments arise.

Conclusion

The claim that a judge ruled Trump's tariffs unlawful under emergency powers law is Partially True. While the U.S. Court of International Trade did rule that the tariffs were unlawful, the ruling has been stayed pending further legal proceedings, meaning the tariffs remain in effect for the time being. This nuance is critical in understanding the current legal landscape surrounding the tariffs.

Sources

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