US Supreme Court strikes down Trump’s global tariffs

Al JazeeraEN 4 min read 100% complete by By AP and ReutersFebruary 20, 2026 at 04:12 PM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

In a 6-3 decision, the US Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trump's global tariffs, ruling that he exceeded his authority in imposing them under a law intended for national emergencies. Chief Justice John Roberts, writing for the majority, stated that the President needed clear congressional authorization to impose tariffs, which he lacked. The ruling came in response to a legal challenge by businesses and US states affected by the tariffs. The court found that the Constitution grants Congress the power to impose taxes, including tariffs, not the Executive Branch. This decision marks a significant setback for Trump's economic agenda and his use of tariffs as a key foreign policy tool, which had sparked a global trade war. Justices Alito, Thomas, and Kavanaugh dissented.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Ukraine 30% Gaza Strip 30% Samuel Alito 40% Clarence Thomas 40% Brett Kavanaugh 40% Congress 50% United States ×260% John Roberts ×270% United States Supreme Court ×490% Donald Trump ×795%

Keywords

tariffs 100% us supreme court 90% donald trump 90% global economy 70% trade war 70% economic policy 60% congressional authorization 50% national emergencies 40% imported goods 40%