Supreme Court strikes down on tariffs one day after Trump promotes economy during Georgia visit

Caption

President Donald Trump arrives to speak at Coosa Steel Corporation in Rome, Ga., Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026.

Credit: AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein

The U.S. Supreme Court said that President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs are illegal. The day before the ruling, the president visited a steel company in Rome, Ga., to promote his tariff policies.

In his first Georgia appearance since taking office, Trump said his controversial tariff policy saved the economy and manufacturing companies like Coosa Steel where he spoke. 

"Without tariffs what would you do?" Trump said. "You know what, everybody would be bankrupt."

But in a 6-3 Friday decision, the Supreme Court ruled that only Congress can impose tariffs. 

Trump had tried using a 1970s law allowing him to expand his powers during emergencies. 

Rally attendee D. Russell said he wishes Trump would address ongoing criticism about high prices.

"His message needs to be 'I understand some people are still hurting, but we're going to fix that,' " Russell said.

Trump’s tariffs have generated billions in revenue for the U.S. government, but have generally not reduced prices for consumers.

U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-GA) issued a statement agreeing with the Supreme Court ruling.

"This ruling is welcome relief for families who are struggling with higher prices as a direct result of this president’s policies,"  Warnock said. "I hope that instead of pursuing other avenues to impose these expensive taxes on Americans, the president centers the people and works to make life more affordable."

This is a developing story.