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Virginia Today
By the People, for the People
Over 20 Blue States Sue Trump Admin Over New Tariffs
Lawsuit argues president is illegally imposing taxes without congressional approval
Published on Mar. 6, 2026
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More than 20 Democratic-led states, including Virginia, have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over a new round of sweeping tariffs of up to 15% on most imported goods. The states argue the president is again attempting to impose taxes on Americans without congressional approval, violating federal law and disregarding Congress' constitutional authority over trade policy.
Why it matters
The lawsuit highlights the ongoing legal and economic fallout from the administration's tariff strategy, which critics say stretches existing laws beyond their intended limits. The case is the latest in a broader debate over presidential authority in trade policy, with supporters arguing aggressive tariffs are necessary to protect U.S. industries and counter foreign trade practices.
The details
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. Court of International Trade, challenges the administration's decision to impose the new tariffs under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. State officials contend this provision has historically been used only in narrow circumstances involving serious balance-of-payments crises and has never served as the basis for sweeping global tariffs. The lawsuit argues the administration's latest move again violates federal law, disregards Congress' constitutional authority over trade policy and bypasses procedural requirements.
- The lawsuit was filed on March 6, 2026.
The players
Jay Jones
Virginia Attorney General who joined the multistate lawsuit.
Dan Rayfield
Oregon Attorney General leading the case.
Kris Mayes
Arizona Attorney General who joined the challenge.
Rob Bonta
California Attorney General who joined the challenge.
Letitia James
New York Attorney General who joined the challenge.
What they’re saying
“For more than a year, President Trump has tried to claim powers he is not entitled to under the law. The Supreme Court already rejected this scheme once. Instead of respecting that decision, the Administration is taking further illegal actions that fly in the face of the Court's ruling. These illegal tariffs are nothing more than a tax on Virginia families and when a President tries to impose them without legal authority, it is our responsibility to step in and defend the rule of law.”
— Jay Jones, Virginia Attorney General (rawstory.com)
What’s next
The U.S. Court of International Trade will decide whether to block the new tariffs and declare them unlawful.
The takeaway
This lawsuit highlights the ongoing legal battle over the president's authority to unilaterally impose tariffs, with critics arguing the administration is overstepping its bounds and violating the Constitution's separation of powers. The economic impact of the tariffs on American businesses and consumers will also be a key factor in the case.
