Former President Donald Trump experienced a weekend of dramatic emotional swings, triggered by a pivotal Supreme Court decision that limited his authority to impose worldwide tariffs. The court's 6-3 ruling, which constrained his executive power on international trade measures, initially provoked a fierce backlash from Trump, followed by brief praise for supportive justices, and culminated in a new tariff announcement.
Initial Fury at Supreme Court Ruling
Trump's reaction began on Friday with harsh criticism directed at the Supreme Court justices who voted against his position. At a press conference, he stated he was "ashamed of certain members of the court, absolutely ashamed." He specifically targeted conservative Justices Amy Coney Barrett and Neil Gorsuch, both of whom he appointed, labeling them an "embarrassment to their families" due to their dissenting votes.
Later that night, Trump escalated his attacks on Truth Social, criticizing Barrett, Gorsuch, and Chief Justice John Roberts. In a notable comment, he remarked, "At least I didn't appoint Roberts," highlighting his disappointment with the chief justice's alignment against his tariff policies.
Saturday's Brief Moment of Praise
The following morning brought a temporary shift in tone as Trump expressed admiration for the justices who supported his emergency tariffs on global trade. In a social media post, he declared, "My new hero is United States Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh and of course, Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito." He added emphatically, "There is no doubt in anyone's mind that they want to, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!"
Swift Return to Criticism and New Tariff Announcement
Trump's positive sentiment proved short-lived. Approximately ninety minutes after praising the supportive justices, he announced he would be increasing global tariff rates from 10% to 15%. This decision was framed as a direct response to the Supreme Court's ruling.
In his announcement, Trump took another opportunity to criticize the court, stating he made the tariff increase after "a thorough, detailed, and complete review of the ridiculous, poorly written, and extraordinarily anti-American decision on Tariffs issued yesterday." This comment reinforced his ongoing contention with the judicial branch over trade policy authority.
The weekend's events underscore the ongoing tension between Trump and the Supreme Court regarding executive power in international trade. His volatile reactions—from public shaming of appointed justices to celebratory praise for allies, followed by policy retaliation—highlight the complex dynamics between presidential authority and judicial oversight in matters of global economic policy.
