President Trump admitted to raising Swiss tariffs because he was irritated by the former president’s tone during a phone call, sparking renewed debate over the misuse of national emergency trade powers.
President Trump revealed he increased tariffs on Switzerland from 30% to 39% following a frustrating phone call with former Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter. Speaking to Larry Kudlow, Trump described her as “very aggressive” and repetitive during the emergency call. “I didn’t really like the way she talked to us, and so instead of giving her a reduction, I raised it,” Trump said.
Democrats criticized the move as proof that tariff policies are based on personal whims rather than national security. While the U.S. eventually negotiated a reduction to 15% in November, the admission has fueled a Supreme Court challenge regarding the president’s emergency trade powers. Three House Republicans recently joined Democrats in a key vote to allow debates on repealing such levies, signaling growing bipartisan resistance.