The US Supreme Court ruled on February 20 that the tariffs imposed by Donald Trump are illegal as they exceed his authority. Tariffs, being taxes, are under the jurisdiction of Congress as per the US constitution, which holds control over financial matters.
Trump utilized the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 to enact most of his tariffs, citing national emergency reasons. However, the Supreme Court clarified that this law did not empower Trump to levy tariffs.
Following the court’s decision, Trump criticized the justices on social media, labeling them a “Disgrace to our Nation.” He announced plans to implement a 15% global tariff using section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act, though these tariffs would be subject to time constraints, requiring Congressional approval to extend beyond 150 days, contrary to Trump’s stance.
Trump, known for his authoritative leadership style, has shown a preference for executive orders over legislative processes since his return to office in January 2025. Despite his party controlling Congress, Trump’s efforts to consolidate power have faced opposition from the Supreme Court, emphasizing the importance of constitutional checks and balances.
This resistance to strongman tactics by judicial bodies is not unique to the US. In a similar instance, the UK Supreme Court intervened in 2019 when then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson attempted to suspend Parliament to push through Brexit-related decisions. The court ruled against Johnson, emphasizing Parliament’s sovereignty and its crucial role in legislation and governmental oversight.
While the US and UK have differing constitutional frameworks, both instances reflect the judiciary’s role in upholding legislative authority against authoritarian tendencies. The significance of legislative bodies in a democracy was reaffirmed by US Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch, emphasizing the need to leverage the collective wisdom of elected representatives.
In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s efforts to enhance executive power over the judiciary through legal reforms have led to a constitutional crisis. Despite the Supreme Court’s intervention against some reforms, challenges persist as the government seeks to exert more control over judicial appointments, raising concerns about the balance of power.
In light of these developments, global leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron have highlighted the importance of the rule of law and checks on power in democratic systems. As authoritarian trends emerge worldwide, the judiciary stands as a crucial safeguard against undemocratic practices, underscoring the essential role of legal institutions in upholding democratic principles.
