
Consider This from NPR Tariffs aren't a presidential power, says California Attorney General
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Nov 5, 2025 Rob Bonta, California Attorney General and expert on legal challenges to executive power, examines the implications of tariffs imposed under emergency powers. He argues that such authority should belong to Congress, not the President. Bonta discusses the legal action California has taken against these tariffs and highlights the economic risks they pose to households and the state's economy. He emphasizes the need for the Supreme Court to limit presidential power to prevent overreach.
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Rose Garden Tariff Proclamation
- Juana Summers recounts Trump's April Rose Garden proclamation imposing broad reciprocal tariffs using IEPA.
- Rob Bonta quotes Trump's speech promising a revived American manufacturing era tied to those tariffs.
Ruling Could Reshape Presidential Power
- The case extends beyond trade into presidential power and global credibility on policy stability.
- Michael McConnell warned that sudden tariff shifts undermine international confidence and agreements.
IEPA Lacks Tariff Authority
- Rob Bonta argues the IEPA does not authorize tariffs because it never mentions tariffs and was never used that way in 50 years.
- He stresses that Congress, not the president, holds the constitutional power to tax and delegate tariff authority explicitly.

