Democrat-led states sue Trump over new tariffs

Two dozen states on Thursday challenged President Trump’s new global tariffs, filing a lawsuit over import taxes he imposed after a stinging loss at the Supreme Court.

- By Lindsay WHITEHURST AND Paul WISEMAN

The Democratic attorneys general and governors in the lawsuit argue that Trump is overstepping his power with planned 15% tariffs on much of the world.

Trump has said the tariffs are essential to reduce America’s longstanding trade deficits. He imposed duties under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 after the Supreme Court struck down tariffs he imposed last year under an emergency powers law.

Section 122, which has never been invoked, allows the president to impose tariffs of up to 15%. They are limited to five months unless extended by Congress.

The lawsuit is led by attorneys general from Oregon, Arizona, California and New York.

“The focus right now should be on paying people back, not doubling down on illegal tariffs,” Oregon Atty. Gen. Dan Rayfield said.

The lawsuit came a day after a judge ruled that companies that paid tariffs under Trump's old framework should get refunds.

The White House said Trump is acting within his power. “The President is using his authority granted by Congress to address fundamental international payments problems and to deal with our country’s large and serious balance-of-payments deficits,” spokesman Kush Desai said. “The Administration will vigorously defend the President’s action in court.”