California Governor Gavin Newsom announced on Wednesday that the Golden State is suing the Trump Administration over the president’s “destructive” tariffs.
Newsom said in a statement that Trump’s “unlawful tariffs” are “wreaking chaos” on California families and businesses — driving up prices and threatening jobs.
Watch Newsom’s comments below:
Donald Trump does not have the authority to unilaterally impose the largest tax hike of our lifetime with his destructive tariffs.
We’re taking him to court. pic.twitter.com/LAm1NRx300
— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) April 16, 2025
The lawsuit is the first legal challenge a state has brought against Trump’s tariffs, as Trump imposed a baseline 10% tax on most foreign goods, plus tariffs of at least 145% on many Chinese goods and separate tariffs on some imports from Canada and Mexico.
“Californians are bracing for fallout from the impact of the President’s choices — from farmers in the Central Valley, to small businesses in Sacramento, and worried families at the kitchen table — this game the President is playing has very real consequences for Californians across our state,” said Rob Bonta, the state’s attorney general, in a statement.
From Axios:
State of play: Newsom announced earlier this month that he was seeking agreements with other countries to try to insulate his state from the effects of Trump’s trade war.
California is the largest importer among the states, Newsom noted in a press release, emphasizing the importance of trade with Mexico, Canada and China.
The big picture: While Trump paused most of his sweeping “reciprocal” tariffs — other than on China — some levies remain in place.
His administration’s tariffs on Chinese goods are still set at 145%.
The White House has signaled more tariffs, possibly on semiconductors and pharmaceuticals, are on the way.
More over at Axios:
JUST IN: Gavin Newsom says California will sue to block Trump's sweeping tariffs https://t.co/ixiLZzBLx7
— Axios (@axios) April 16, 2025
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