Colorado and 11 other states filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration in the U.S. Court of International Trade in New York on Wednesday, aiming to halt its controversial tariff policy. The states argued that the policy, implemented by President Donald Trump, is unlawful and has led to economic turmoil.
The lawsuit challenges Trump’s assertion that he has the authority to impose tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, alleging that the tariffs are arbitrary and not based on lawful authority. The plaintiffs are seeking a court ruling declaring the tariffs illegal and preventing government agencies from enforcing them.
Among the states joining Colorado in the lawsuit are Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, and Vermont. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser criticized the tariffs, stating that they have already resulted in rising prices for Coloradans. He emphasized that only Congress has the power to tax and impose tariffs, and argued that there is no legitimate emergency justifying Trump’s tariffs.
Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes labeled Trump’s tariff policy as “insane” and illegal, highlighting its negative impact on the economy. The lawsuit contends that the president’s broad authority to impose tariffs without proper justification has disrupted the American economy and violated the constitutional order.
California Governor Gavin Newsom also took legal action against the tariff policy, expressing concerns about the potential revenue losses for the state. The White House defended the tariffs as necessary to address a national emergency affecting American industries.
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Originally Published: April 23, 2025 at 3:23 PM MDT
