More Than 20 States Sue Trump Over 15% Global Tariff Plan

A coalition of more than 20 states filed suit against the Trump administration Thursday over its planned 15 percent global tariff, arguing the president is unconstitutionally bypassing Congress's authority over trade policy.

The lawsuit is led by Democratic attorneys general from Oregon, New York, California and Arizona. Plaintiffs contend the president cannot — in their words — "sidestep the Supreme Court" after the justices previously struck down the president's original slate of tariffs. One day before the filing, a separate federal judge ruled that companies which paid tariffs before the Supreme Court's decision should be refunded. The Trump administration is expected to appeal that ruling.

For Treasure Coast businesses and consumers, the stakes are significant. Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River counties are home to agricultural exporters, marine industry suppliers and small manufacturers who import raw materials subject to broad tariff schedules. A 15 percent universal tariff would raise input costs across those sectors. Florida's ports, including those that serve regional distributors, would face increased costs on goods flowing through international supply chains.

The tariff fight lands amid broader economic turbulence. Stocks fell sharply Thursday after oil prices spiked to levels not seen since 2024, according to PBS NewsHour. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped nearly 800 points by the close, the Nasdaq fell roughly 60 points, and the S&P 500 also ended the session lower — a sign that markets remain jittery over unresolved trade policy.

Rep. Brian Mast (R-Fla.), Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) and Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) had not issued public statements on the multistate lawsuit as of Thursday evening.

The Trump administration has not yet responded publicly to the new lawsuit. It remains unclear when a federal court will schedule an initial hearing on the states' challenge.

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