Twelve US states sue over Trump tariffs

San Francisco

Twelve US states have filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump's administration, calling his new tariffs illegal. The case was filed in the US Court of International Trade in New York by attorneys general from states including New York, Colorado, Oregon, and others.

These states argue that Trump acted outside his legal power by placing tariffs without proper cause. They say the tariffs hurt the US economy and must be stopped. The lawsuit claims Trump’s actions were based on personal decisions rather than lawful authority.

The group argues that the President can only use emergency powers if there is a real, unusual threat from another country. They say Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act was wrong and caused harm to businesses and workers.

New York Attorney General Letitia James said Trump’s tariffs are illegal and damaging. She warned they could cause higher prices, job losses, and more economic trouble if allowed to continue.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul added that these tariffs have already raised consumer costs and created financial chaos.

The conflict began after Trump signed an executive order on April 2. He claimed a national emergency and added “reciprocal tariffs” on goods from all US trade partners. This move shocked both international leaders and US businesses.

In response, White House spokesperson Kush Desai defended the action. He said the administration is using all tools to protect American industries and workers.

Still, critics say the order has caused panic in the markets and must be reversed. The court will now decide if Trump's tariff plan is legal or not.