Trump Labels Supreme Court Justices 'Disloyal to the Constitution' Following Tariff Ruling

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump unleashed a scathing critique of the Supreme Court on Friday, targeting justices who ruled against his tariffs. He labeled the majority as a “disgrace to our nation” and accused them of being “very unpatriotic and disloyal to the Constitution.”

In a striking contrast, he commended the three dissenting justices in the 6-3 decision that overturned most of his tariffs, insinuating that the majority was “swayed by foreign interests.” Trump described the three Democratic appointees in the majority as “fools and lapdogs” to moderate Republicans and Democrats.

“The Supreme Court’s ruling on tariffs is deeply disappointing, and I’m ashamed of certain members of the court, absolutely ashamed for not having the courage to do what’s right for our country,” Trump stated during remarks at the White House.

Despite a 6-3 conservative majority that often aligns with his policies, Trump’s language was notably harsh. It is uncommon for presidents to express such personal disdain towards Supreme Court rulings that disrupt significant policies. Interestingly, two justices in the majority — Neil Gorsuch and Amy Coney Barrett — were appointed by Trump himself and have previously ruled in his favor.

Next week, Trump may encounter some of the nine justices at his State of the Union address scheduled for Tuesday. “I couldn’t care less if they come,” he remarked while announcing new tariffs to replace those invalidated by the court.

Expanding on his allegations of foreign interference, Trump suggested without providing evidence that foreign entities exert “undue influence” over the court. “They have a lot of influence over the Supreme Court. Whether it’s through fear or respect or friendships, I don’t know,” he added.

While he refrained from naming any justices in the majority, Trump explicitly praised dissenters: Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, and Brett Kavanaugh. He particularly highlighted Kavanaugh, another of his appointees, saying, “I’m so proud of him.”

Responding to a reporter's inquiry, Trump later criticized Barrett and Gorsuch's votes. “I think their decision was terrible. I think it’s an embarrassment to their families,” he asserted.