WASHINGTON, D.C. (WZMQ 19 News) — President Trump’s tariffs have been the center of attention this week in Washington.
A recent Supreme Court decision striking down his sweeping emergency trade powers loomed large over last night’s State of the Union address.
During Tuesday’s State of the Union, President Donald Trump defended his trade and tariff strategy — even though the Supreme Court ruled Friday that he violated federal law by using emergency authority to impose global tariffs. As the president entered the House chamber, he greeted the conservative justices who ruled against him — before later criticizing the decision from the podium.
“Despite the disappointing ruling, these powerful, country saving — it’s saving our country the kind of money we’re taking in,” said President Trump.
The high court’s decision forced the administration to shift strategies and invoke different legal authority. The president’s new tariff approach — a 10% global tariff — went into effect Tuesday, despite saying Saturday it would be 15% “effective immediately.”
Either way, the new tariff authority being used by the president will need congressional approval after 150 days in order to continue.
“I don’t think that the votes are there today for that,” said Rep. Nick Langworthy, R-N.Y.
“I don’t think there’s enough Democrats that would vote for a 10% tariff. And I think there’s definitely a handful of Republicans that would vote against a tariff,” said Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y.
“I never presuppose a vote until I see the details,” said Rep. Jack Bergman, R-Mich., who said it’s too early to say whether he’d support extending the global tariffs this summer. “But I will vote to support anything that reflects better opportunities for our citizens, for our companies, as we are not only on the local market, but the international market.”
“I believe that the president is still on the right track to not allow other countries to take advantage of our American workers,” Bergman added.
But Sen. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., says tariff uncertainty has hurt Michigan businesses — especially in the auto industry.
“The average Michigander knows that when you start putting tariffs on every little part that goes in a car, especially things coming from Canada — where we really have integrated supply chains — it just ends up with less money in their pocket,” said Slotkin. “Tariffs especially done in a sloppy way, on again — off again, yes-no. It’s just confusing.”
“Our environment needs stability and predictability. Our companies, small and large, tell me that all the time,” Slotkin added.
Meanwhile, Senate Democrats introduced the “Tariff Refund Act of 2026” on Monday. It would require a full refund — plus interest — of $175 billion in tariff revenue paid by U.S. companies. Reimbursements would go to small U.S. importers and businesses first, with all refunds processed within 180 days.
FedEx is the latest major company to sue the federal government for a full tariff refund.
