Trump Criticizes Supreme Court Tariff Ruling, Outlines Next Steps

February 20, 2026 | Lena Dorsey

In a development that underscores the complex interplay of politics and judicial decision-making, President Trump recently criticized the Supreme Court justices who ruled against his tariff policies, accusing them of partisanship. The president's remarks have sparked a debate about the role of political affiliation and ideology in judicial rulings, particularly at the highest court in the land.

Notably, the decision against Trump's tariffs was not strictly along party lines, as three of the justices who opposed the tariffs were appointed by Republican presidents. This fact adds a layer of nuance to the allegations of partisanship, suggesting that judicial decisions may not always align neatly with the political affiliations of the appointing presidents.

The ruling has significant implications for U.S. trade policy and the executive branch's authority over such matters. Trump's critique reflects broader tensions concerning the balance of power between the judiciary and the executive, bringing to light the challenges of governance in a highly polarized political environment.

While Trump's criticism of the court's decision highlights ongoing political divides, it also raises questions about the independence of the judiciary and the extent to which judges are influenced by their personal beliefs or the expectations of those who appointed them. As the nation continues to navigate these complex issues, the role of the Supreme Court remains pivotal in interpreting and shaping the contours of American governance.

| Ruthie Klein

A proposed rule by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is stirring controversy as it could potentially jeopardize the housing stability of nearly 80,000 individuals across the nation, a significant portion of whom are U.S.

| Lena Dorsey

In an unexpected twist, former Prince Andrew found himself embroiled in legal turmoil as U.K. police detained him today on suspicion of misconduct in public office, stirring a media frenzy throughout the nation.

| Ruthie Klein

In a characteristic move emblematic of his progressive platform, Senator Bernie Sanders, the Independent from Vermont, has taken his campaign trail to the sun-soaked avenues of California.

| Daniel Cho

Early voting kicked off this week for the Texas Senate Democratic primary election, setting the stage for what has already become a compelling race.

| Lena Dorsey

In a display reminiscent of Cold War naval posturing, Iran engaged in joint maritime exercises with Russia on Thursday, according to Tehran.

| Julian Park

In a renewed effort to address the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, President Donald Trump is set to convene a pivotal meeting on Thursday with representatives from over 24 nations that have pledged support to his newly formed Board of Peace.

| Julian Park

In a move that is sending shockwaves through Washington, President Trump has requested billions of dollars in damages from the federal government, a decision that places his own Justice Department in a perplexing and unprecedented ethical bind.

| Daniel Cho

Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO and founder of Meta Platforms Inc., is set to take the stand today in a landmark trial that scrutinizes the role of social media companies in the growing teen mental health crisis.

| Ruthie Klein

Criminal defense lawyers across the nation are increasingly attuned to what they perceive as an uptick in aggressive legal theories and atypical charging decisions emanating from the U.S. Department of Justice.