US Treasury Secretary Bessent to Attend Supreme Court Hearing on Trump Tariffs November 5

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced he will attend the Supreme Court hearing regarding the legality of President Donald Trump's tariff policy, describing the issue as a "matter of national security" and an "economic emergency." President Trump chose not to attend the hearing himself to avoid being a distraction, emphasizing that the focus should be on the country rather than him. The hearing will determine whether Trump lawfully used the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose broad import tariffs, a move challenged in two consolidated cases. Bessent acknowledged concerns that his presence might be perceived as an attempt to intimidate the justices but dismissed such criticisms, stating his attendance is to underscore the urgency of the economic situation. He also noted that if the Supreme Court rules against the administration, there are other authorities and trade deals in place to maintain the tariff framework. The case represents a significant moment in the Trump administration's economic and foreign policy.