Make Me Smart Friends, foes, and tariffs
Nov 4, 2025
Asma Khalid, co-host of The Global Story with a background in U.S. foreign policy and trade, joins to dissect the significant implications of Trump's tariffs. She explains the ongoing Supreme Court challenge regarding presidential power over tariffs and how it could reshape trade policy. Asma also highlights the shifting international relationships, particularly between allies like Canada and rivals such as China and India, and the broader geopolitical realignment in response to U.S. trade strategies under Trump.
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Tariffs As A Political Tool
- Donald Trump has long favored tariffs as a core policy tool and used them as both carrot and stick beyond economic disputes.
- The Supreme Court case questions his authority to impose wide tariffs under emergency powers and could upend much of his economic policy.
Legal Limits On Emergency Tariffs
- The case centers on using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose tariffs, a novel application of emergency authority.
- If the Supreme Court restricts this power, Congress would reclaim primary control over trade and tariffs.
Canada's TV Ad That Triggered Tariffs
- Canada ran an Ontario TV ad quoting Ronald Reagan that provoked President Trump to threaten a 10% tariff in retaliation.
- Trump also applied tariffs to specific Canadian sectors like steel, aluminum, lumber, and furniture despite existing trade deals.