Part 6/8:
Trump firmly believes in using tariffs as a tool for economic transformation. Although the Constitution empowers Congress with tariff-setting authority, Trump cites a precedent from the 1970s that allows presidential imposition of tariffs under retaliatory or emergency conditions. His push for extensive tariffs, particularly against China and Mexico, indicates a willingness to navigate legal gray areas.
However, proposals for blanket tariffs may provoke legal challenges if not well-justified. Trade lawyers suggest that without clear emergencies declared, courts could find broad tariff strategies unconstitutional.