Scott Bessent says Supreme Court strengthened Trump with 'draconian' move despite ruling on tariffs
Scott Bessent comments that while the Supreme Court's ruling against Trump's tariffs takes away some leverage, it could paradoxically enhance Trump's powers in implementing tariffs again.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent commented on the recent Supreme Court ruling that struck down President Trump’s international tariff policy, which was seen as a significant setback for the Trump administration's economic strategies. He stated that despite the ruling, which was decided with a 6-3 majority, the fundamental aspects of national security and revenue collection remain unchanged. The ruling essentially limits the President's immediate leverage over international trade negotiations, an essential tool the administration used to exert pressure on foreign nations.
Interestingly, Bessent pointed out that the Supreme Court’s decision, while a loss, could also result in an unintended strengthening of Trump’s future negotiating position. He suggested that the ruling complicated the ability to impose tariffs, but simultaneously could provide the President with a renewed authority to reinstate tariffs quickly under a different legal framework. This potential shift might allow Trump to reclaim some of the leverage lost with the court's opinion, presenting a complex dynamic in the ongoing economic narrative surrounding the administration.
The implications of this ruling are broader than just the economic realm; they touch on the ongoing political tussle within the United States over trade policy and the power dynamics between branches of government. As the Administration navigates these challenges, the complexities of this ruling may affect both international relations and the domestic economic landscape, underpinning how future tariff policies are crafted and argued in the political arena.