Trump Defends Tariff Policy Amid Supreme Court Scrutiny, Promises $2,000 Dividend for Americans:

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again defended his controversial tariff policy, claiming that the United States has become the “richest and most respected country in the world” because of his aggressive trade measures. Posting on his Truth Social platform, Trump said that every American—except the wealthy—would soon receive a $2,000 dividend from the tariff revenues collected by his administration. “People Against Tariffs Are Fools” In his trademark style, Trump lashed out at critics who oppose tariffs, calling them “fools.” He argued that his tariff policy has brought record profits to the U.S. economy, claiming, “We are now the richest, most respected country in the world, with almost no inflation and a record stock market. 401(k)s are at their highest ever.” Trump further added that his administration was “taking in trillions of dollars” from tariffs and would soon begin paying down what he described as the “ENORMOUS DEBT” of $37 trillion. He asserted that factories and manufacturing plants were being built across the country “only because of tariffs,” which he credited for a wave of new domestic investment. He also announced a plan to issue a “dividend of at least $2,000 per person”, excluding high-income Americans, as a reward for the success of his trade policies. Tariffs and the Supreme Court Battle Trump’s fiery defense came just days after the U.S. Supreme Court raised serious questions about the legality of his sweeping tariff program. The case, which has far-reaching implications for global trade and presidential authority, tests whether Trump exceeded his powers when he imposed broad tariffs under a 1977 law designed for national emergencies. During the recent court hearing, both conservative and liberal justices appeared skeptical of the argument made by U.S. Solicitor General D. John Sauer, who represented Trump’s administration. Several justices questioned whether the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) grants the president unlimited authority to impose tariffs without congressional approval. Lower courts had earlier ruled that Trump’s use of the 1977 law went too far, stating that tariffs—which function as taxes on imports—are a power reserved for Congress. However, the administration appealed, arguing that the president must retain flexibility to act decisively on matters of national and economic security. Trump Questions Presidential Limits In another Truth Social post, Trump expressed frustration over the court proceedings, arguing that presidential powers should naturally include the authority to impose tariffs. “So, let’s get this straight? The President of the United States is allowed to stop ALL trade with a foreign country, but not to place a simple tariff for national security? That’s ridiculous!” he wrote. “Businesses are pouring into the USA ONLY BECAUSE OF TARIFFS. Has the Supreme Court not been told this? What the hell is going on?” Trump framed the issue as one of fairness, claiming that while other countries freely tax American goods, U.S. leaders are criticized for trying to protect domestic industries. Economic Stakes and Global Impact The outcome of the Supreme Court case could reshape U.S. trade policy for years to come. If the justices rule against Trump, billions in tariff revenues could be refunded to importers, and future presidents may face new limits on how they use economic sanctions and tariffs as foreign policy tools. Critics of Trump’s policy warn that widespread tariffs increase the cost of imported goods, driving up prices for consumers and businesses. They argue that tariffs function as hidden taxes that often hurt American households, particularly those with lower incomes. Supporters, however, credit Trump with revitalizing U.S. manufacturing and pushing companies to bring production back to American soil. They see the tariffs as a way to pressure countries like China into fairer trade agreements and to strengthen national security. What’s Next The Supreme Court’s decision is expected sometime in 2026, but the debate over Trump’s tariff policy continues to divide economists, lawmakers, and business leaders. For now, Trump remains defiant, insisting that his trade strategy has made the U.S. richer, stronger, and more independent than ever. “Businesses are thriving,” he declared. “The tariffs are working—and America is winning.

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