Trump heads to Pennsylvania rally as tariff fight intensifies

(NBC)- President Donald Trump is traveling to Pennsylvania today for a rally at U.S. Steel, fresh off a legal win that allows his sweeping tariffs to remain in place—for now. A federal appeals court has temporarily paused a ruling by the U.S. Court of International Trade that blocked most of the president’s tariffs. The lower court argued Trump exceeded his authority by invoking emergency powers and bypassing Congress to impose the tariffs.

In an overnight response, President Trump blasted the ruling, warning that if it stands, it would “completely destroy presidential power.” He argued that requiring congressional approval for tariffs would slow down trade negotiations significantly at a time when the U.S. is in delicate talks with global partners.

Kevin Hassett, Director of the National Economic Council, expressed confidence in the administration’s position: “Very adamant that this is the right approach. And so, you know, while we’re ready for a backup plan, that’s never going to happen because this is gonna work.”

Still, the administration has other tools to impose tariffs without relying on emergency powers—adding uncertainty for business owners like Victor Schwartz, founder of VOS Solutions and lead plaintiff in the case against the tariffs.

“The tariffs are a cash flow killer, particularly for a small business,” Schwartz said. “This kind of uncertainty is terrible for business.”

Meanwhile, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent provided an update on the broader trade picture, noting that while some deals are close, progress with China remains stalled.

“I would say that they are a bit stalled,” Bessent said of the high-stakes negotiations.

The White House has pledged to finalize 90 trade deals in 90 days, setting a July 9th deadline. But with time ticking, few agreements have been announced.