US President Donald Trump on Tuesday warned that a possible Supreme Court ruling that reduces his authority to impose tariffs would create a serious national security risk. The Supreme Court has been examining his broad tariff policy since November 5. However, the judges have not said when they will announce their decision.

At the same time, several companies and Democratic-led states have taken the issue to the US Court of International Trade. They argue that the tariff system violates the Constitution because Congress, not the president, holds the power to impose such duties.

Trump defends his approach on social media

Trump wrote online that “the biggest threat in history to United States National Security would be a negative decision on Tariffs by the US Supreme Court”. He claimed that the US would be “financially defenseless” if he loses the ability to use tariffs in the way he does now.

He also said the US should not be stopped from doing what “others already do”. Trump shared a photo of French President Emmanuel Macron from Macron’s recent trip to China to highlight his point.

Over the weekend, Macron warned China that the European Union may impose tariffs “in the coming months” if Beijing does not reduce its large trade surplus with Europe.

Economic pressures rise as political tensions widen

Trump argued that his tariff policy makes the US stronger. He wrote that “because of Tariffs, easily and quickly applied, our National Security has been greatly enhanced, and we have become the financially strongest Country, by far, anywhere in the World”. He added that “only dark and sinister forces would want to see that end”.

However, economic stress is growing. Trump’s approval ratings have dropped to their lowest since he returned to office in January. The rising cost of living has become a major concern for Americans, and many believe tariffs have contributed to higher prices. US inflation reached 2.8 per cent year on year in September.

Tariffs create divisions within Maga movement

The tariff issue has also created conflict within the Maga political circle. Former ally Marjorie Taylor Greene, who cut ties with Trump in November, criticised him for not making affordability a top priority.

Costco leads major corporate challenge

Meanwhile, Costco has become the biggest US company so far to openly oppose the tariff strategy. The retailer filed a lawsuit last week, challenging the legality of the tariffs. This policy is a key part of Trump’s plan to correct what he sees as a long-term imbalance in US trade and to pressure foreign governments. Costco argues that the current tariffs break the law.