Democracy Now! Audio Democracy Now! 2025-09-02 Tuesday
Sep 2, 2025
Dan Rayfield, Oregon Attorney General, is recognized for leading a multi-state lawsuit against Trump's tariffs. Neil Katyal, former acting solicitor general, argues the case against these tariffs, exploring their constitutional limits. Rami Khouri, a veteran Palestinian-American journalist, addresses the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the geopolitical implications of conflicts in Yemen. Efren Olivares, representing vulnerable Guatemalan children facing deportation, discusses the legal battles surrounding their protection. Engaging insights on pressing legal and humanitarian issues unfold throughout.
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Court Reasserts Congress' Tariff Power
- The appeals court ruled most of Trump's tariffs lack legal basis because tariffs are a core congressional power.
- The court emphasized that the 1977 IEPA does not clearly grant the president unilateral tariff authority.
Constitutional Limits On Executive Tariffs
- Neil Katyal called the ruling a sweeping rebuke of the president's unilateral tariff authority.
- He noted the Constitution vests tariff power in Congress, not the president.
Seek Congress Or Litigate Quickly
- Katyal advised the administration to either seek congressional approval or take the case to the Supreme Court.
- He emphasized Congress remains the proper forum to authorize large, lasting tariffs.
