California Sues Trump Over Controversial Tariffs Impacting Economy

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — California Governor Gavin Newsom announced Wednesday that the state is suing President Donald Trump over his recent tariffs, marking the first such legal challenge from any state in the nation. The lawsuit argues that these sweeping levies could significantly harm California’s economy, which is the largest in the U.S. and fifth largest in the world.

The tariffs, which were set between 10% to 145% on various goods, have raised concerns among California officials, particularly as the state relies heavily on agriculture and manufacturing. Speaking at an almond farm in the Central Valley, Newsom emphasized that California has been disproportionately affected by these tariffs, which he described as “reckless and unprecedented.” Nearly 82% of the world’s almonds are produced in the state, underscoring the potential economic damage.

“No state is poised to lose more than California,” Newsom stated, highlighting that 43% of the state’s almonds, pistachios, and dairy products are export-dependent. He added that the consequences of the tariffs are “profound and pronounced.” The lawsuit challenges Trump’s invocation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, asserting that it has never been used for imposing tariffs and should fall under Congress’s authority, not the president’s.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta, who joined Newsom in announcing the lawsuit, indicated that the legal action is part of an ongoing effort. “This is the 14th lawsuit we have filed against the Trump administration,” he mentioned. The state’s leaders argue that the tariffs are creating chaos for California families and businesses by driving up prices and threatening jobs.

The White House responded to the lawsuit dismissively. White House spokesman Kush Desai criticized Newsom, suggesting he should focus more on local issues such as crime and homelessness rather than trying to obstruct federal policies. Desai stated, “Instead of focusing on California’s rampant crime, homelessness, and unaffordability, Gavin Newsom is spending his time trying to block President Trump’s historic efforts to finally address the national emergency of our country’s persistent goods trade deficits.”

Beyond the immediate impacts on agriculture, California’s legal challenge also touches on broader economic concerns. The state produced a gross state product exceeding $4 trillion in 2024, representing roughly 13.7% of the U.S. GDP. The tariffs, Newsom warned, could upend California’s economic standing, complicating efforts to achieve his policy goals for all residents.

As the legal battle unfolds, California is actively seeking trade deals with other nations to protect state exports from retaliatory tariffs. “We’re standing up for American families who can’t afford to let the chaos continue,” Newsom stated in a call to action. The suit aims to present a united front against the federal tariffs, which have been met with criticism for their hasty implementation and questionable legality.

Newsom’s efforts indicate a significant clash between state and federal powers, emphasizing California’s position as a leader in global trade. Should the case reach the Supreme Court, it could potentially reshape the legal landscape regarding presidential powers related to trade.