Trump’s tariff authority remains a flashpoint in a high-stakes legal battle. On Tuesday, a federal appeals court temporarily reinstated tariffs imposed by President Trump. This move pauses a lower court’s ruling that had blocked the tariffs.
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit issued a stay on the lower court’s decision. It also announced an expedited review of the legal challenge. The case questions whether Trump acted within his authority under federal law.
Five small businesses and a group of states brought the lawsuit. They argue Trump misused the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose tariffs. The U.S. Court of International Trade had previously ruled in their favor. That ruling is now paused as the appeal proceeds.
Furthermore, The appeals court found that both sides presented strong legal arguments. As a result, the judges granted the stay to preserve current conditions. Legal experts say this approach is common in complex cases.
However, The case will now move to an en banc hearing, involving all active judges of the court. Such sessions are rare and reserved for significant legal questions. The hearing is scheduled for July 31 at 10:00 a.m. in Washington, D.C.
The Liberty Justice Center represents the small business plaintiffs. Although disappointed by the stay, they welcomed the expedited process. Senior Counsel Jeffrey Schwab criticized the court’s temporary support for the tariffs.
“We’re disappointed the court let these unlawful tariffs continue,” Schwab stated. “However, we trust the full court will recognize that Trump’s tariff authority under IEEPA has limits.”
Following, Schwab added that all prior rulings had found the tariffs illegal. He emphasized confidence in the court’s upcoming review.
The White House, however, supported the appeals court’s action. Spokesman Kush Desai defended the administration’s actions in a statement. He said the stay confirmed the proper use of executive powers.
In contrast, Desai argued that the tariffs address national emergencies like trade imbalances and drug trafficking. “Trump’s tariff authority stems from laws passed by Congress,” he said. “We believe we will ultimately prevail.”
The legal fight over these tariffs continues to unfold. But for now, the court has allowed them to remain in place. The final outcome will shape the limits of presidential economic powers for years to come.
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