On the Presidential Power to Impose Tariffs, Appoint, Remove, Impound, and Pardon

Robert A. Levy

The incoming administration seems poised to exercise an array of controversial executive powers. Here are some of the legal considerations.

Can the president impose tariffs without congressional approval?

Recent laws give the president substantial authority on tariffs to protect industries harmed by global trade, but blanket tariffs on all foreign goods might not withstand challenge. That’s especially true for tariffs imposed on Mexico and Canada, which...