Trump Trade Response: Court Loss Reaction | NYT

(WASHINGTON, January 19, 2026) – Former President Donald Trump’s trade negotiator, Robert Lighthizer, has indicated that a response to any court losses regarding the legality of Trump-era tariffs would be “immediate,” according to reporting by The New York Times.

The Supreme Court is currently considering challenges to the tariffs imposed on billions of dollars worth of goods during the Trump management, with a ruling expected to have significant economic implications.

• The Supreme Court is reviewing the legality of tariffs imposed during the Trump administration.
• Robert Lighthizer, Trump’s former trade negotiator, has stated a response to any unfavorable ruling would be swift.
• The CNBC reports the Supreme Court is unlikely to overturn the tariffs, which Trump considers a key policy achievement.
• A delay in the Supreme Court’s decision could benefit the former president, according to Fortune.

What are the Tariffs?

The case before the Supreme Court centers on tariffs imposed on steel and aluminum imports,as well as tariffs on goods imported from China,during the Trump administration. These tariffs were enacted under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, which allows the president to impose tariffs if imports are found to threaten national security. Challenges to the tariffs argue that the Trump administration overstepped its authority and that the tariffs harmed American businesses and consumers.

Did you know? – Section 232 of the Trade Expansion act of 1962 has been used sparingly before the trump administration, primarily during times of war or significant national emergency. Its broad request under Trump was unprecedented.

Potential Outcomes and Reactions

According to the New York Times, Lighthizer’s statement suggests that the Trump campaign is prepared to quickly implement retaliatory measures if the Supreme Court rules against the tariffs. CNBC reports that legal experts believe the Supreme Court is unlikely to overturn the tariffs, viewing them as a “signature economic policy” of the former president. Fortune notes that a delay in the Court’s decision could be beneficial for Trump, potentially allowing him to revisit the issue if re-elected.

Pro tip – Tariffs are essentially taxes on imported goods.While intended to protect domestic industries, they can also raise prices for consumers and disrupt global supply chains.

The Court’s Deliberations

Axios reports that the Supreme Court’s deliberations have been lengthy, and a decision may not bring complete clarity on the scope of presidential authority regarding trade. The news Journal explains that the case also has implications for a proposed $2,000 check that was discussed during the trump administration, as tariffs were considered a potential funding source.

Time.news based this report in part on reporting by The New York Times, CNBC, Fortune, The News Journal, and Axios and added independent analysis and context.