Lost Debate Shrinking US Pop, SC on Tariffs, Low Expectations
Nov 6, 2025
Idrees Kahloon, a policy-focused journalist previously at The Atlantic, dives into pressing issues like tariffs and immigration trends. He discusses the legal quandary of presidential tariff authority and the Supreme Court's role in shaping future precedent. Kahloon highlights potential demographic shifts in the U.S., where more people may leave than arrive, impacting Social Security. He also tackles education reform, linking declining test scores to low expectations, while showcasing success stories from Mississippi and New Orleans that emphasize higher standards.
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Tariffs Test Separation Of Powers
- The Supreme Court case questions whether a president can unilaterally impose large tariffs under a vague emergency statute.
- Major questions doctrine makes such sweeping executive use of vague text highly vulnerable without clear congressional authorization.
Major Questions Doctrine Is Central
- The major questions doctrine demands clear congressional authorization before the executive claims sweeping new powers from vague statutes.
- It has already been used to curb Biden-era emergency actions, setting precedent relevant to tariff authority.
Tariffs Are Congress's Core Role
- Tariffs are traditionally a core congressional power under Article I, so delegating them requires unmistakable intent.
- The administration's textual claim that "regulate importation" includes large tariffs looks legally weak.