Supreme Court Ruling on Trump's Tariffs: Conservative Media Divided
A recent editorial in The Wall Street Journal highlighted the impact of tariffs on corporations, sparking a Supreme Court ruling that deemed most of Trump's tariff regime illegal. The ruling exposed fractures within the conservative media, with some unsure whether to defend institutions or demand defiance. Trump's attempt to impose tariffs through executive fiat was rebuked by the Court, emphasizing that trade policy falls under Congress's jurisdiction. The dissenting justices accused the majority of being swayed by foreign interests, leading Trump to double down on his stance against the ruling.
The Court's decision prompted mixed reactions from conservative media, with some calling it lawless and urging defiance, while others celebrated the limitation of presidential power. Former Vice President Mike Pence, who supported the ruling, saw it as a form of accountability for Trump's power grabs. The response on Fox News ranged from delusion to anger, with some attributing geopolitical conquests to Trump's tariffs. The controversy surrounding Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick's involvement in the tariff strategy added fuel to the fire, with accusations of insider trading and exploitation.
Despite the backlash, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer defended the administration's tariff policy, vowing to press ahead using alternative powers. The stage is set for Trump's upcoming State of the Union address, where he may confront the Supreme Court directly. The divide within right-wing media reflects a struggle between defending norms and advocating for unchecked power. The Supreme Court's ruling serves as a reminder that even a pro-wealthy tilt cannot overlook blatant power grabs.