Los Angeles, California – President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were welcomed by California Governor Gavin Newsom upon their arrival at Los Angeles International Airport on January 24, 2025. The purpose of their visit was to survey the areas affected by the Palisades and Eaton fires that devastated the region.
Governor Newsom announced California’s plans to file a federal lawsuit against President Trump’s tariff regime, claiming that the implementation of his protectionist trade agenda is unlawful. This lawsuit marks the first time a state has challenged the Trump administration regarding its extensive tariff policies, which have led to significant market volatility and strained relationships with allies and trading partners.
According to Governor Newsom, California believes that President Trump overstepped his authority by imposing tariffs, labeling it as the largest tax hike of their lifetime. The lawsuit argues that Trump’s use of the International Economic Emergency Powers Act, to enact the reciprocal tariff plan, is both illegal and unprecedented. The state contends that these tariffs pose immediate and irreparable harm to California, given its status as the nation’s largest economy, manufacturing hub, and agricultural producer.
California’s Attorney General Rob Bonta, in collaboration with Governor Newsom, emphasized that the President’s tariff implementation is not only troubling but also illegal. Bonta highlighted that California, being the fifth-largest economy globally, acknowledges the significant impact of global trade policies on various sectors within the state. The impending consequences of Trump’s tariffs are expected to affect farmers, small businesses, and families across California.
In response to the legal action taken by California, the White House criticized Governor Newsom, attributing his focus on blocking Trump’s trade efforts to divert attention from other pressing issues within the state. The White House spokesperson emphasized the administration’s commitment to addressing the national emergency of persistent goods trade deficits through various tools at their disposal, including tariffs and negotiations.
Governor Newsom and Attorney General Bonta are scheduled to hold a press conference to announce the lawsuit, signaling California’s firm stance against President Trump’s tariff regime. The ongoing developments surrounding this legal action highlight the clash between state and federal authorities on trade policies, underscoring the broader implications of protectionist measures on the economy and international relations.