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California Sues Trump Over Sweeping Import Tariffs

Governor Newsom and Attorney General Bonta challenge the legality of tariffs imposed under emergency powers, citing 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 filed a federal lawsuit on April 16, 2025, arguing President Trump exceeded his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) by imposing sweeping tariffs without congressional approval.
  • The state seeks an immediate court order to block the universal 10% tariff on imports and higher levies, including a 145% tariff on Chinese goods, which have disrupted supply chains and inflated costs.
  • Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta claim the tariffs are unlawful and have caused billions of dollars in damages to California’s economy, the largest among U.S. states.
  • The lawsuit highlights California’s disproportionate vulnerability due to its $675 billion in annual trade, with major impacts on agriculture, manufacturing, and small businesses.
  • This marks the first time a U.S. state has legally challenged a president's use of emergency powers to impose tariffs, raising significant questions about executive authority and federal-state relations.