President Trump has unleashed a tirade against the Federalist Society, criticizing their recommendation of judges during his early days in Washington. This outburst follows a ruling by a three-judge panel on the US Court of International Trade, which determined that he had overstepped his authority by attempting to impose tariffs unilaterally.
On Wednesday, the court ruled that Trump’s actions exceeded the powers granted to him under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 (IEEPA).
The panel consisted of judges appointed by various presidents: Gary Katzmann (Obama), Timothy Reif (Trump), and Jane Restani (Reagan).
In response, the Trump Department of Justice promptly appealed the court’s permanent injunction. Remarkably, within less than 24 hours, the federal circuit court’s full slate of judges granted the Trump Administration an immediate administrative stay.
In a lengthy post on Truth Social Thursday evening, Trump expressed his frustration:
The U.S. Court of International Trade has made the astonishing decision to rule against the United States on essential tariffs. Thankfully, the full 11-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has intervened, staying the order from the Manhattan-based court. One must wonder where these initial three judges originate. How could they inflict such potential damage on our nation? Is it merely a vendetta against “TRUMP?” What other explanation could there be? When I first arrived in Washington, I was advised to consider The Federalist Society for judicial recommendations. I took this advice openly, only to later realize that they were influenced by a dubious character named Leonard Leo, a man whose motives seem questionable and who appears to harbor ambitions that conflict with American interests. He has boasted about his influence over judges and even justices on the Supreme Court — let’s hope that’s an exaggeration! Alas, Leo has since departed The Federalist Society to pursue his own agenda. I am deeply disappointed in The Federalist Society for the poor guidance they provided on numerous judicial nominations, a matter that should not be overlooked. While I take pride in many of our selections, I am equally disheartened by some others. The paramount goal must always be what’s best for our country!
In my view, my effective use of tariffs has already begun to bring trillions of dollars into the U.S. from other countries—funds that would have otherwise remained untapped without these tariffs. The difference is stark: it’s about cultivating a rich, prosperous, and successful United States versus the alternative. The recent ruling from the U.S. Court of International Trade is misguided and politically charged! I hope the Supreme Court will swiftly and decisively overturn this detrimental decision that threatens our nation. We cannot allow backroom “hustlers” to undermine our country! This ruling suggests I must seek Congressional approval for these tariffs, meaning countless politicians would gather in D.C. for weeks or even months to debate what measures to impose on countries treating us unfairly. If this ruling stands, it would effectively dismantle presidential power—the office would be forever altered! This decision is being applauded worldwide, except here at home. Radical left judges, alongside some very unsavory characters, are on a mission to dismantle America. Should this ruling remain, trillions of dollars would be forfeited, funds that are essential to MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN. It would mark the most severe financial ruling ever imposed on our sovereign nation. The President of the United States must have the authority to shield America from those inflicting economic and financial harm. Thank you for your attention to this matter!
