California’s Tariff Lawsuit Dismissed, But Legal Fight Continues

A federal judge dismissed California’s lawsuit challenging former President Trump’s tariffs, setting the stage for an appeals battle that could redefine presidential trade powers.

The lawsuit, led by Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta, claimed that Trump overstepped constitutional bounds by using emergency powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose tariffs on goods from China, Mexico, and Canada. “Trump doesn’t have the authority to impose these destructive tariffs,” Bonta said.

Judge Jacqueline Corley dismissed the case on procedural grounds, not constitutional merits, citing California’s lack of standing. This allows the state to appeal directly to the Ninth Circuit, where it hopes for a favorable ruling.

The Trump administration argues tariffs are vital to national security and foreign policy. Critics say IEEPA is being misused for regular trade policy.

Legal scholars say this case could go to the Supreme Court. Its outcome may reshape the balance of power between the president and Congress on trade issues—and redefine the limits of emergency executive authority.