Internationalism No. 85, March 2026 Page 12 From the series Chronicles of the new American nationalism The Supreme Court has ruled that the emergency tariffs imposed by Donald Trump are illegal, striking down one of his key policies and affirming Congress's powers over foreign trade taxation. The group of companies and dozen States that had challenged the presidential decision have won their legal battle against the federal government. The ruling represents a severe political setback for the president, formally recognises the imbalance represented by his trade policy, and opens up a political battle to redirect it. As we write, just days after the ruling, Trump has already announced that he will resort to other legislative measures. The question remains open as to the extent to which the Supreme Court and Congress will balance the tariff weapon. Major questions doctrine The ruling, written by Chief Justice John Roberts and approv...