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Feb 20, 2026, 8:14 p.mFeb 20, 2026, 8:32 p.m
Around two hours after the Supreme Court declared a large part of US President Donald Trump’s tariffs to be illegal on Friday afternoon, he commented on the ruling in a press conference in the White House. Despite the legal hurdles, he presents himself as a winner and announces a protectionist offensive.
The speech began with a sharp division within the Supreme Court. While he praised the conservative squad for their “strength and science,” he did not leave the liberal judges in good stead. He accused them of acting purely politically. “The Democrats on the court are against everything that makes America strong, healthy and great.”
He thanked Judge Brett Kavanaugh, who he appointed. Trump interpreted his written statement as a license for future measures. After the ruling, Trump wants to take a different approach to the tariffs he imposed and will use alternatives that will allow him to make even more money.
Specifically, he wants to introduce a global tariff of 10% on a different legal basis to replace the tariffs that were struck down by the Supreme Court. He said he was “ashamed of certain members of the court” because of this decision.
Trade Act 1974
Today he will sign an order to impose an additional global tariff of ten percent on imports into the USA, citing another legal basis, he continued. According to his own statements, he wants to rely on a trade law from 1974.
This allows tariffs to be levied on imports for up to 150 days. However, for a longer period of time, Trump would need the approval of the US Parliament. Trump emphasized that he had the right to impose tariffs. However, he also admitted that this had now become more complicated via the other legal channels.
The US President also announced that he would initiate trade investigations, citing additional legal bases. If any unfair trading practices are identified, this could be used as justification for further tariffs. Trump said he was convinced that they would ultimately make more money than before. (sda/awp/dpa)