In a bold legal move, 12 American states have taken on former President Donald Trump over his latest round of tariffs, which they claim are not just economically harmful but outright unconstitutional.
A coalition of 12 U.S. states, led by Arizona, has filed a lawsuit challenging the legality of former President Donald Trump’s tariff measures, arguing that he lacks the authority to unilaterally impose such levies without congressional approval.
Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes did not mince words, labeling Trump’s tariff strategy “insane and economically reckless.” The states involved in the lawsuit include Democratic-led regions like Minnesota, New York, and Oregon, with California already having launched a separate suit a week prior.
Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariff policy marks a dramatic shift from decades of U.S. commitment to free trade. The former president has imposed a 145% duty on Chinese imports, prompting Beijing to retaliate with its own 125% tariffs on American goods. Additionally, Trump has levied a 10% tariff on other trade partners and signaled intentions to escalate further.
In their legal filing, the states assert that Trump misused the 1977 law which allows for emergency economic actions, arguing that tariff implementation falls squarely under Congress’ jurisdiction. “He is arbitrarily imposing extreme tariffs on goods based on vaguely defined emergencies,” the lawsuit argues. “This undermines the constitutional balance and disrupts the economy.”
Trump has maintained that his trade war will bring back manufacturing jobs to the U.S., but critics insist the tariffs are backfiring. “These tariffs are taxes in disguise — and Arizona consumers are paying the price,” Mayes emphasized.
Meanwhile, political consequences may be brewing. According to The New York Times, Trump’s approval rating has declined steadily, dipping to 44% just three months into his new term.
Democratic leaders are seizing on the issue, pointing out the financial burden his policies place on everyday Americans. California Governor Gavin Newsom called the tariff approach “the worst self-inflicted wound in U.S. economic history.”
As tensions escalate and legal battles unfold, the broader implications of Trump’s protectionist push are beginning to hit home — not just in policy circles, but also in the pockets of American consumers.
What are your thoughts on Trump’s tariff policies? Do you believe they help or hurt the economy? Join the conversation in the comments below and stay updated with NIGPOST for more global political developments.
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