New Delhi, February 20: US President Donald Trump has sharply criticised the Supreme Court of the United States after it struck down his sweeping tariff regime in a landmark 6-3 verdict. Calling the ruling a “disgrace,” Trump said he has a “backup plan” ready, according to Reuters.

Trump Reacts to Supreme Court Verdict

The president was addressing a gathering of state governors at the White House when an aide handed him a note informing him about the decision. Sources told Reuters that Trump appeared visibly frustrated upon receiving the news. Donald Trump Faces Setback as US Supreme Court Strikes Down Global Tariffs As Unlawful.

Soon after, he publicly expressed his displeasure, describing the judgment as unacceptable and hinting that his administration would explore alternative measures to pursue its trade agenda.

What Did the Supreme Court Rule?

In a majority opinion authored by Chief Justice John Roberts, the apex court ruled that Trump exceeded his authority by imposing sweeping tariffs under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act. US Supreme Court Strikes Down Donald Trump’s Global Tariffs in Landmark Ruling.

The court upheld a lower court’s decision, stating that the Constitution clearly grants Congress the power to impose taxes, including tariffs. “The Framers did not vest any part of the taxing power in the Executive Branch,” Roberts wrote.

Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, and Brett Kavanaugh dissented from the ruling.

Why the Tariffs Were Controversial

Trump had invoked the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose extensive import duties on goods from nearly all US trading partners. The move was seen as one of the most aggressive assertions of executive power over trade policy in recent history.

However, the Supreme Court ruled that the law did not grant the president such broad authority, reinforcing that tariff powers lie squarely with Congress.

What Happens Next?

While Trump has hinted at a “backup plan,” details remain unclear. The ruling is expected to have major implications for US trade policy and the balance of power between the executive branch and Congress.

The decision marks a significant setback for Trump’s tariff strategy and could reshape how future administrations approach trade measures under emergency powers.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 20, 2026 10:36 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).