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California Sues Trump Administration Over 'Unlawful' Tariffs

Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta argue that the tariffs imposed under emergency powers are illegal without congressional approval and are causing severe economic harm to the state.

A China Shipping container is seen at the port of Oakland, as trade tensions escalate over U.S. tariffs with China, in Oakland, California, U.S., April 10, 2025. REUTERS/Carlos Barria/File Photo
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Overview

  • California has filed a federal lawsuit challenging President Trump's authority to impose sweeping tariffs without congressional approval, citing the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.
  • The state contends that the tariffs have caused significant economic damage, including rising costs, job losses, and disruptions to supply chains.
  • The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, seeks an immediate judicial order to block the tariffs' enforcement in the state.
  • Governor Newsom emphasized that California, as the largest U.S. importer and a global economic hub, faces disproportionate harm from the tariffs, which affect its major trade partners: China, Mexico, and Canada.
  • This marks the first instance of a U.S. state suing the federal government over tariff policies, escalating the debate over presidential powers in economic decision-making.