Trump Defends Tariffs Amid Looming Supreme Court Ruling

President Trump defended his tariff policy at the Kennedy Center, emphasizing its national security benefits, while awaiting a Supreme Court decision on his use of emergency powers. If restricted, Trump's administration, led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, has prepared alternative plans to maintain the tariff strategy.

Arriving at the Kennedy Center Honours in Washington D.C., U.S. President Donald Trump highlighted the national security advantages of his administration's tariff policy. Trump's remarks came in the backdrop of a significant Supreme Court ruling on the legality of his broad use of emergency powers for imposing tariffs.

The President stated that while other tariff strategies exist, the current approach is more efficient. This comment comes as the Supreme Court is poised to decide if Trump exceeded his authority in levying wide-reaching duties, heightening costs on commodities like appliances and lumber.

In anticipation of the court's decision, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is developing a contingency plan using other statutory authorities to replicate the tariff framework. This alternative could become necessary if the court's ruling demands the reimbursement of tariffs already paid by companies.

(With inputs from agencies.)