White House "Highly Confident" Supreme Court Will Uphold Trump Tariffs; Ruling Expected Tuesday

On January 16, 2026, White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett stated the administration is "highly confident" the Supreme Court will uphold President Trump's sweeping tariff policies.

Key details regarding the legal battle and current status:

Supreme Court Timeline: The Court did not issue a ruling during its session on Friday, January 16. The next possible date for a decision is Tuesday, January 20, 2026.

Legal Arguments: The case centers on Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977 to impose tariffs. Lower courts previously struck down these tariffs, ruling that the President lacks the authority under IEEPA to impose duties during national emergencies.

White House "Plan B": If the Supreme Court rules against the administration, the White House has prepared a backup plan to immediately impose 10% across-the-board tariffs using Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974.

Affected Levies: The ruling will impact the "Liberation Day" tariffs (10% to 50%) and duties imposed on Canada, Mexico, and China related to fentanyl trafficking.

Economic Impact: Experts estimate these tariffs contributed to an average tax increase of $1,400 per U.S. household in 2026.

Additional recent developments include President Trump threatening new tariffs on countries that oppose his efforts to acquire Greenland.

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