Apple News Today: Detailed Summary of "Why a Court Just Struck Down Trump’s Sweeping Tariffs"
Release Date: May 29, 2025
Host: Shemitah Basu
Introduction and Overview
In this episode of Apple News Today, host Shemitah Basu navigates through a series of pivotal news stories impacting the political and economic landscape. The primary focus centers on President Trump's recent tariff policies and their legal challenges, followed by discussions on his controversial pardon strategies, the administration's strained relationship with higher education, and notable international and corporate developments.
Court Ruling on Trump’s Tariffs
Federal Trade Court's Decision
A significant portion of the episode delves into the federal trade court's decision to nullify President Trump's expansive tariff measures. Basu outlines how a three-person panel—comprising appointees from Obama, Reagan, and Trump administrations—unanimously determined that Trump's invocation of the Emergency Powers Act overstepped his legal authority. The court found that the President lacked the unilateral power to impose tariffs without Congressional approval.
Case Background
The lawsuit was initiated in Oregon by a coalition of small businesses and states, challenging the administration's tariff imposition strategy. The ruling effectively pauses most of the recently announced tariffs, including:
- 30% on China
- 25% on Mexico and Canada
- 10% across all nations
However, the 25% auto tariffs remain unaffected due to their different legal basis.
Notable Quote:
Ryan Goodman, editor of Just Security:
"The court's argument basically says this goes back to Congress. It boils down to the idea that there was always a poor fit for the tariffs being invoked by the administration because the administration says they were operating under this emergency National Security act. And the court says, no, you aren't."
[01:49]
Trump's Response and Future Implications
Trump's Defense of Tariffs
In response to criticism dubbed as "Taco Trade" (Trump Always Chickens Out), Trump defended his tariff strategy as essential for successful trade negotiations. He argued that his tariffs were pivotal in bringing trade partners to the negotiating table.
Notable Quote:
Donald Trump:
"I can promise you and I have great respect for the people at the European Union. They wouldn't be over here today negotiating if I didn't put a 50% tariff on. The sad thing is, now when I make a deal with them, it's something much more reasonable. They'll say, oh, he was chicken, he was chicken. That's so unbelievable."
[02:57]
Implications of the Ruling
Basu emphasizes that the court's decision raises critical questions about the administration’s ability to negotiate future trade agreements and maintain existing ones under the new legal constraints. The temporary halt to tariffs could alter the economic landscape and affect international trade dynamics.
Presidential Pardons and Controversies
Recent Pardons Issued by Trump
The episode shifts to President Trump's recent series of pardons, which have sparked controversy due to apparent patterns of personal favoritism and political loyalty. Notable pardons include:
- Todd and Julie Chrisley: Reality TV stars convicted of tax evasion and fraud.
- Scott Jenkins: Former Virginia sheriff convicted of fraud and bribery.
- Paul Walzack: Former nursing home executive convicted of tax crimes.
Pattern of Political Loyalty
Liz Oyer, a former pardon attorney, critiques the administration's approach to pardons, highlighting a departure from traditional practices where remorse and rehabilitation are key factors.
Notable Quote:
Liz Oyer, former pardon attorney:
"This administration appears to be using pardons in a completely different and new way, which is to reward people who demonstrate political loyalty to the administration. And that is unprecedented."
[06:08]
Administration's Pardon Strategy
Basu notes that the current term's pardon strategy contrasts with Trump's first term, where pardons were more in line with historical precedents, even when benefiting high-profile individuals like Paul Manafort and Roger Stone.
Key Figures Supporting Pardons:
- Alice Marie Johnson: Pardoned in the first term, now a pardon czar.
- Ed Martin: Pardon attorney at the DOJ, accused of facilitating pardons for political allies.
Notable Quote:
Liz Oyer:
"But now the ordinary people seem to have been completely forgotten. There are applications piled up at the office of the pardon attorney from individuals who are incarcerated around the country, some of whom have been waiting years for their applications to be considered. And those are being ignored in favor of the wealthy and well connected."
[06:35]
Harvard Commencement Protests and Administration Tensions
Protests Against Administration Policies
Basu covers the protests at Harvard’s Science Center Plaza, where students and supporters rallied against the Trump administration's attempt to ban international students and the threat to cut $100 million in federal funding to the university.
Christian Amanpour’s Address
CNN anchor Christian Amanpour addressed the students, emphasizing the importance of dissent in democracy.
Notable Quote:
Christian Amanpour:
"Make no mistake about it, academics, education are on the front lines of the current struggle between the two halves of America. Dissent is not disloyalty. Dissent is actually an invaluable part of our democratic process."
[08:43]
Harvard’s Response
Harvard President Alan Garber addressed the challenges, acknowledging internal issues like antisemitism but reaffirming the university's commitment to serving the nation and maintaining academic freedom.
Notable Quote:
Alan Garber, Harvard President:
"I don't know fully what the motivations are, but I do know that there are people who are fighting a cultural battle... Harvard is a very old institution, much older than the country. And as long as there has been a United States of America, Harvard has thought that its role is to serve the nation."
[09:59]
Elon Musk’s Departure from Trump Administration
Musk’s Exit and Criticism of Legislation
Elon Musk announced his departure from the Trump administration as a special government employee, citing a need to focus on his businesses, especially Tesla. This decision follows his recent criticism of the Republican tax and spending bill.
Notable Quote:
Elon Musk:
"I was like disappointed to see the massive spending bill frankly, which increases the budget deficit, not doesn't decrease it and undermines the work that the Doge team is doing. I think a bill can be big or it can be beautiful, but I don't know if it could be both. My personal opinion."
[11:44]
Impact on Tesla
Musk’s departure coincides with a significant downturn in Tesla’s European sales, which have plunged by nearly 50%, indicating potential challenges ahead for the company.
International News Highlights
Israel-Hamas Conflict
Basu reports on Israel’s targeted killing of Hamas leader Mohammed Sinwar in a hospital attack, a move announced by Prime Minister Netanyahu. This action is part of the ongoing tensions following previous aggressive strikes, including one that resulted in civilian casualties.
Turkish Airlines' New Policy
Turkish Airlines has implemented a policy fining passengers approximately $70 for standing before the seatbelt sign is turned off. This measure aims to enhance safety and security, ensuring passenger compliance and orderly boarding.
Conclusion
Shemitah Basu concludes the episode by directing listeners to the Apple News app for comprehensive coverage of these stories and additional content. She highlights upcoming features, such as a narrated article by Scientific American on Arctic geoengineering efforts, encouraging continued engagement with in-depth reporting.
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and notable quotes from the episode, providing a clear and engaging overview for listeners and those who haven't tuned in.