Legal Challenges to Trump’s Tariffs Are Gaining Strength

Recent lawsuits are mounting a serious legal challenge against the Trump administration’s tariff authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). According to Washington Analysis, these cases could dramatically reshape U.S. trade policy and market dynamics in the coming months.

CFRA’s Washington Analysis team explains why the latest lawsuits—including filings for a temporary restraining order (TRO) and preliminary injunction—are more credible and legally potent than earlier attempts. With the business community’s potential support and growing economic pressure, the odds of tariff blocks or reductions are climbing.

What You’ll Learn in the Full Report:

• Why the IEEPA-based tariff lawsuits represent the most credible legal threats to date.
• How the “major questions doctrine” and “nondelegation doctrine” could impact the outcome.
• What key upcoming events—like the July 8 tariff extension expiration—mean for investors, businesses, and policymakers.
• Updated probability forecasts: Why Washington Analysis now assigns 50% odds that a legal challenge to Trump’s tariffs will succeed.
• How business group involvement and capital market stress could tip the legal balance.

Key Developments Covered:

• Private businesses across industries—wine, apparel, manufacturing—are citing existential threats to justify injunctions.
• Major law firms and academic experts are backing the new legal arguments.
• The lawsuits strategically focus on legal issues rather than factual national security questions—enhancing their odds in court.
• Tariff risks could reshape not only current policy but also broader economic and market expectations for 2025.

Authors of this Legal Report

Nicholas Rodelli, Head Of Legal Edge Research
Michael Gordon, Vice President, Legal Research & Assistant General Counsel ·