A recent federal court decision blocking President Trump’s broad global tariffs isn’t expected to derail ongoing trade talks, according to a top White House official. National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett dismissed the ruling on Fox Business Network on May 29th, referring to the judges involved as “activist judges.”

The court’s ruling, issued by a three-judge panel, centered on President Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to justify the reciprocal tariffs announced on April 2nd. The judges concluded that the IEEPA doesn’t grant the president the authority to impose universal tariffs on imports. Their statement was clear: “The Worldwide and Retaliatory Tariff Orders exceed any authority granted to the President by IEEPA to regulate importation by means of tariffs.”

Despite the legal setback, Hassett’s confident dismissal suggests the administration remains undeterred in its approach to international trade negotiations. The long-term implications of this court ruling and its potential effects on future trade policy remain to be seen.