Trump's Tariffs on Trial: The U.S. Supreme Court | PETER QUINTER

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Episode Description

Renowned U.S. international trade attorney Peter Quinter speaks on how likely it is that the US Supreme Court will overturn President Trump's tariffs.

Justin Hayden Miller, a global trade lawyer, sits down with Peter to unpack the legal battles surrounding Trump’s controversial trade policies. From whether they are constitutional to Trump's unprecedented use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977, we dive into whether his tariffs will ultimately stand up in U.S. courts, or whether the US State will have to reimburse importers the tariffs already paid.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Trump’s Tariff Strategy: How President Trump’s executive orders since January 20, 2025, have reshaped U.S. trade policy.
• Legal Challenges: Two landmark cases (VOS Selections Inc. vs. United States and Learning Resources Inc. vs. Trump) headed to the U.S. Supreme Court, questioning the president’s authority under IEPA.
• U.S. Constitution and Tariffs: The role of Congress vs. the President in imposing tariffs, and the non-delegation doctrine’s impact on these cases.
• Historical Context: Comparisons to Presidents Reagan and Nixon, with insights from Reagan’s 1987 free trade speech and Nixon’s media critique.

Guest Spotlight: Peter Quinter

Peter Quinter, an equity partner at Gunster and chair of its U.S. Customs and International Trade Law Group, brings 35 years of expertise to the conversation. A globally recognized international trade attorney ranked in Chambers USA, offers unparalleled insights into their legal and economic ramifications.

Notable Quotes

• Peter Quinter: “These are the two most extraordinary cases that I’ve ever seen in my 35 years as a U.S. customs and international trade lawyer.” (On the Supreme Court-bound cases)
• Justin Hayden Miller: “Tariffs are somewhat on trial before the American people as well”

President Reagan's Radio Address to the Nation on Free and Fair Trade from Camp David, Maryland: Courtesy of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library.

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*Disclaimer: This podcast is simply for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not in way constitute legal, business, financial or other advice whatsoever. Should you require advice then please seek such from an appropriately qualified professional, explaining your specific circumstances.

Chapters

• 0:00 Intro, Trump's Tariffs and Challenges
• 6:00 The US Constitution and Tariffs
• 8:38 Standard methods for Presidents to impose tariffs
• 15:12 Reagan's Trade Philosophy
• 24:31 IEEPA 1977: Trump's Unprecedented Tariff Tool
• 32:48 Court Cases Challenging Trump's Tariffs
• 43:09 Tariffs on Trial by the The People and the Media