NY AG & Governor Hochul Sue Trump Admin Over Illegal Tariffs

New York Attorney General Letitia James and Governor Kathy Hochul have announced a landmark lawsuit against the Trump administration for imposing illegal tariffs, marking a significant stand against the economic chaos wrought by President Trump’s executive decisions.

The coalition of 12 states argues that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not grant the president authority to impose such sweeping tariffs without Congressional approval. The lawsuit seeks to halt the IEEPA tariffs and prevent future enforcement.

Attorney General James criticized President Trump’s actions, stating, ‘The president does not have the power to raise taxes on a whim, but that’s exactly what President Trump has been doing with these tariffs.’ Governor Hochul echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the state’s commitment to fighting back against economic turmoil: ‘New York is standing up to fight back against the largest federal tax hike in American history.’

Since February, President Trump’s unilateral imposition of tariffs has targeted nearly every trading partner, including allies. The lawsuit claims these tariffs could exacerbate unemployment, inflation, and threaten wages by slowing economic growth. Economists estimate the increased tariffs will cost the average family thousands of dollars annually, with New York City alone facing over 35,000 job losses if a recession occurs.

The economic impact is already being felt across the state, with agencies potentially paying over $100 million in extra costs due to price increases. Additionally, retaliatory tariffs from Canada on imported electricity could lead to skyrocketing energy bills for New Yorkers.

New York’s lawsuit represents a bold effort to challenge executive overreach and protect the economic interests of its citizens.

RELATED: Agencies Delay CRA Rule Implementation

RELATED: Feds Crack Down on Interstate Banking Deposit Grab