The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has chosen not to sue the Trump administration over recent tariffs, instead opting to directly lobby for their removal. While legal challenges from various entities are ongoing, the Chamber fears successful litigation may not offer lasting relief, as similar tariffs could be reinstated using other legal frameworks. The broader debate over presidential authority on trade continues to intensify.
Chamber of Commerce Avoids Lawsuit Over Trump’s Tariffs
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, one of the most powerful business advocacy groups in the United States, has decided not to take legal action against President Donald Trump’s recently imposed “Liberation Day” tariffs. Instead, the Chamber will focus on lobbying the administration to reverse the measures. This decision was confirmed by two individuals familiar with the matter, who spoke to POLITICO under anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue.
Legal Risks Behind the Decision
The Chamber had been considering a lawsuit over Trump’s use of the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to implement broad tariffs. However, concerns arose that even if the lawsuit succeeded, the administration could reintroduce similar tariffs under a different statute, such as the 1962 Trade Expansion Act or the 1974 Trade Act. As a result, the group concluded that lobbying would provide a faster and more effective route to relief.
Growing Legal Opposition
While the Chamber steps back from litigation, other entities have moved forward. California Governor Gavin Newsom, alongside Attorney General Rob Bonta, filed a lawsuit, citing billions in potential losses to California’s trade-dependent industries. Additionally, conservative legal groups such as the Liberty Justice Center and the New Civil Liberties Alliance have initiated their own legal challenges, claiming Trump has overstepped his authority under the emergency law.
Tariffs and Their Impact
President Trump used IEEPA to impose a 10 percent blanket tariff and a 145 percent tariff specifically on Chinese imports, affecting over 60 trading partners. Though the tariffs are currently paused for 90 days, their broad impact has raised concerns among small businesses, many of whom have contacted the Chamber seeking immediate relief.
Legal Viability of Tariff Challenges
Experts suggest that Trump’s use of IEEPA for tariff implementation is legally untested and possibly unconstitutional. Liza Goitein of the Brennan Center for Justice stated that there is a substantial legal basis to challenge the action, referring to existing Supreme Court interpretations. However, legal proceedings could take months, unless expedited through preliminary injunctions — a step some groups are avoiding to prevent delays through appeals.
A Strategy Rooted in Speed and Influence
Despite acknowledging the potential illegality of Trump’s approach, the Chamber emphasized the urgency of direct relief for small businesses. In a public statement, they stressed that litigation, while an option, may not be the most effective method for immediate impact. Their goal remains to influence the administration’s trade policy through direct engagement and negotiation.
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