Trump Critiques Supreme Court Appointees

Former President Donald Trump publicly criticized two justices he appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court for decisions that he believes contradict his pledge to increase revenue via higher tariffs.

While expressing his admiration for Justice Neil Gorsuch, Trump chastised both Gorsuch and Justice Amy Coney Barrett for their decisions in a recent tariff case. He warned them about an upcoming ruling regarding another significant policy.

“I really like Justice Neil Gorsuch. I think he’s smart and a good person, but his vote against the tariff move was a disaster for both me and the country,” Trump remarked, adding, “How do we reconcile this? It’s just harmful.” He made these comments on True Social.

He expressed similar sentiments toward Barrett, stating, “I’ve always respected Amy Coney Barrett, and it’s the same for her. They were meant to help our country, not hurt it! I don’t believe they intended to, but their decisions on tariffs resulted in a $159 billion cost to the U.S. That’s a debt we owe to those who’ve taken advantage of us over the years.”

Trump expressed disbelief at what he perceived as disloyalty from the justices he nominated to the Court.

“It’s incredible!” he exclaimed. “I don’t necessarily demand loyalty, but I expect it, especially when it comes to our country.”

He cautioned the justices that a decision opposing his order on birthright citizenship would lead to unsustainable economic consequences.

“We need to make decisions rooted in good judgment, strength, and common sense,” he asserted. “The recent tariff ruling, along with unfavorable birthright citizenship decisions, is simply not sustainable for America!”

The Supreme Court is set to decide on the issue of whether to maintain birthright citizenship for individuals born within the United States or to restrict it to those born to citizen parents.

The Court’s ruling on tariffs has already halted several increases that Trump had enacted unilaterally against foreign nations.

In November 2024, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum cautioned then-President-elect Trump that imposing tariffs would only lead to job losses and inflation. However, shortly after taking office, Trump instituted a 25% tariff on Mexico in response to issues related to illegal drug trafficking.