Donald Trump has appealed to the US Supreme Court to defend his tariff program. He wants the justices to overturn a ruling that struck down his wide-ranging trade duties as unlawful.

Question of presidential authority

The administration filed its petition on Wednesday night. It urges the court to quickly decide whether a president can impose tariffs without Congress. Last week, the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals ruled 7-4 against Trump. Judges said only Congress holds the power to set import duties.

Billions at stake

The case could disrupt Trump’s trade and foreign policy plans. It may also force the US to return billions in collected tariffs. Trump defended his actions under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The law allows presidential measures against “unusual and extraordinary” threats. In April, he declared an economic emergency, claiming trade imbalances harmed US manufacturing and threatened national security.

Appeals court delays enforcement

Although the appeals court ruled against Trump, it postponed enforcement to allow for an appeal. “The stakes in this case could not be higher,” Solicitor General John Sauer wrote in Wednesday’s filing. He said the ruling disrupted key trade negotiations and created legal uncertainty. He warned it weakened the president’s ability to prevent an economic and foreign policy crisis.

Small businesses challenge tariffs

Small companies filed lawsuits, arguing the tariffs threaten their survival. Their lawyers remain confident. “These unlawful duties are harming small businesses,” said Jeffrey Schwab of the Liberty Justice Center. “We hope for a swift resolution for our clients.” If the Supreme Court rejects review, the ruling takes effect on October 14.

Previous legal setbacks

In May, the Court of International Trade in New York also struck down the tariffs. That decision was paused during appeals. The lawsuits were filed by small firms and a coalition of states. In April, Trump signed executive orders introducing a 10 percent base tariff and “reciprocal” tariffs on more than 90 countries.

Global consequences

The appeals court also blocked tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China. Trump argued they were necessary to curb drug imports. Other duties, including those on steel and aluminum, remain in effect. They rely on a separate presidential authority.