New York, April 23, 2025 — Twelve Democratic-led states have launched a legal challenge against President Donald Trump’s expansive tariff policies, filing a lawsuit in the U.S. Court of International Trade in New York. The states—Oregon, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, and Vermont—contend that the tariffs, imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), are unconstitutional and exceed presidential authority.
The lawsuit targets Trump’s recent executive actions, which include a 145% tariff on imports from China and 25% tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico. The states argue that only Congress holds the constitutional power to regulate tariffs and that the administration’s actions bypass legislative oversight. “These tariffs are not only unlawful but also economically disastrous,” said Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield, a lead plaintiff in the case. “They drive up costs for families and threaten jobs across our state.”
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New York Attorney General Letitia James echoed these concerns, stating, “President Trump’s reckless tariffs are causing market chaos and burdening consumers with higher prices. We are fighting to protect our economy and uphold the rule of law.”
The tariffs, announced as part of Trump’s broader trade agenda, aim to address what the administration calls national emergencies, including trade deficits and illegal migration. White House spokesman Kush Desai defended the policies, dismissing the lawsuit as a “partisan witch hunt” and arguing that the tariffs are essential for protecting American workers and national interests.
The economic fallout from the tariffs has already begun to ripple across industries. Analysts warn that the increased costs of imported goods could lead to higher consumer prices, particularly for electronics, automotive parts, and agricultural products. Businesses in states like Illinois and Minnesota, which rely heavily on trade with Canada, have voiced concerns about disrupted supply chains and reduced competitiveness.
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This legal action follows a separate lawsuit filed by California, which similarly challenges the tariffs’ legality and economic impact. Legal experts suggest the cases could escalate to higher courts, potentially setting a precedent for the scope of presidential power in trade policy.
As the lawsuits unfold, the twelve states are urging the court to issue an injunction to halt the tariffs, citing irreparable harm to their economies. The Trump administration, meanwhile, shows no signs of backing down, with Desai stating, “The President will continue to take bold action to secure America’s economic future.”
The case represents a significant escalation in tensions between state governments and the Trump administration, with far-reaching implications for U.S. trade policy and constitutional law.