The Supreme Court is currently evaluating the legality of President Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs under the Major Questions Doctrine, a judicial standard that requires Congress to use clear and direct language to authorize extensive economic actions by the executive branch. This doctrine, which the justices have previously used to block several major initiatives under President Joe Biden, now poses a significant challenge to Trump’s trade policies.
The Major Questions Doctrine is rooted in the principle that the Constitution grants Congress the primary authority over economic policy, and the executive branch cannot unilaterally implement sweeping measures without explicit legislative approval. By applying this doctrine, the Supreme Court may invalidate Trump’s tariffs, which were introduced as part of his ongoing efforts to address trade imbalances and protect domestic industries. This decision could have far-reaching implications for U.S. trade policy and the balance of power between the branches of government.
The potential invalidation of Trump’s tariffs has sparked debate among legal experts and policymakers, with some arguing that it represents a necessary check on executive overreach, while others contend that it limits the president’s ability to act decisively on critical economic issues. As the court deliberates, the outcome could set a precedent for future executive actions and reshape the landscape of U.S. trade policy for years to come.