The US Supreme Court engaged in an intense debate over the legality of Trump’s reciprocal tariffs, with several justices expressing doubts about the broad application of the law by the president. 

Tariffs are a form of taxation, and taxation has traditionally been a core power of Congress. Therefore, allowing the president’s foreign affairs authority to override this fundamental congressional power seems, to some extent, to upset the balance between the executive and legislative branches.

The justices voiced concern that if the executive branch were to obtain such authority, Congress might find it difficult to reclaim its powers. The Court is expected to issue a ruling in the coming weeks or months, rather than waiting until June or July as is customary for major decisions.