WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump launched an unprecedented verbal assault on the Supreme Court on Friday following a ruling against him regarding tariffs, labeling justices who upheld the decision as a "disgrace to our nation" and "unpatriotic" for disregarding the Constitution. The president expressed admiration for the three dissenting justices in the 6-3 decision that invalidated most of his tariffs, implying that the majority was swayed by foreign interests and describing the three Democratic appointees as "fools and lapdogs" to moderate Republicans and Democrats.
In a statement at the White House, Trump lamented the court's ruling on tariffs, expressing shame towards certain justices for lacking the courage to act in the best interest of the nation. The Supreme Court currently holds a 6-3 conservative majority that generally supports decisions favorable to Trump. While it is common for presidents to criticize Supreme Court rulings that alter significant policies, Trump's aggressive and personal language is atypical.
Two justices in the majority - Justices Neil Gorsuch and Amy Coney Barrett - were appointed by Trump and have generally supported him in previous cases. Trump may encounter several of the nine justices next week during his State of the Union address, scheduled for Tuesday. When asked about their potential attendance, Trump stated that he couldn't care less either way. In a subsequent announcement of new tariffs to replace those struck down by the court, Trump continued his criticism of foreign influence on the court without providing evidence.
"There is undue influence over the Supreme Court by foreign interests," Trump alleged, yet failed to specify which justices or parties he believed were involved. He further suggested that this influence might be exerted through fear, respect, or friendships. In his critique of the court, Trump chose not to mention any individual justices from the majority decision.
Title: U.S. President Praises Three Supreme Court Justices While Criticizing Two Others
In a press conference, President Donald Trump commended three of the nine Supreme Court justices: Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, and Brett Kavanaugh, whom he appointed during his tenure. The president expressed particular pride towards Justice Kavanaugh.
Later, in response to questions from reporters, Trump criticized the recent votes cast by Justices Amy Coney Barrett and Neil Gorsuch, stating that he found their decision disappointing and an embarrassment to their respective families.
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