A coalition of small businesses and the state of California have initiated legal actions against former President Donald Trump’s recent tariffs, arguing they exceed presidential authority and harm the economy.
On April 14, the Liberty Justice Center filed a lawsuit in the US Court of International Trade on behalf of five small businesses, including Terry Precision Cycling, a Vermont-based women’s cycling apparel brand. The suit challenges Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose tariffs without congressional approval, asserting this move is unconstitutional and detrimental to small enterprises.
Two days later, California Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced a separate lawsuit contesting the tariffs. They claim the tariffs, which include a 10-percent baseline on all imports and higher rates for certain countries, threaten California’s economy, particularly its agriculture and technology sectors. Newsom stated, “President Trump’s unlawful tariffs are wreaking chaos on California families, businesses, and our economy – driving up prices and threatening jobs.”
While the US Chamber of Commerce has criticized the tariffs, citing potential harm to businesses and consumers, it has opted to lobby against them rather than pursue legal action, according to Politico. The Chamber’s approach underscores the broader debate over the balance of power in trade policy and the economic implications of unilateral tariff decisions.
Opposition to the current US administration is gaining momentum domestically, driven by growing frustration over what many see as erratic policymaking that disproportionately benefits select individuals and industries. Critics argue that President Trump’s recent tariff actions are just one example of broader government action that appears impulsive, lacks transparency, and prioritizes short-term political gains over long-term national interest. From sudden regulatory rollbacks to favoritism in the awarding of federal contracts, there is growing concern that decisions are being made without a unified strategy or accountability. This perception of unpredictability and favoritism is not only unsettling markets and foreign allies, but is also fueling opposition in the US, among businesses, interest groups and even parts of the President’s political base.
