US President Donald Trump pauses while speaking at the Economic Club of New York at the New York Hilton Midtown November 12, 2019, in New York, New York. - European stock markets closed higher on Tuesday, helped by speculation that US President Donald Trump will postpone a tariffs decision on European-made cars. (Photo by Brendan Smialowski / AFP) (Photo by BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images)
Phil Mattingly explains why Trump has so much power over tariffs

CNN’s Phil Mattingly explains why the executive branch has the power to impose tariffs on other countries, and why President Donald Trump’s unprecedented actions aren’t likely to face any opposition, legal or political, for now.

1:18 • Source: CNN
Politics of the Day 12 videos
US President Donald Trump pauses while speaking at the Economic Club of New York at the New York Hilton Midtown November 12, 2019, in New York, New York. - European stock markets closed higher on Tuesday, helped by speculation that US President Donald Trump will postpone a tariffs decision on European-made cars. (Photo by Brendan Smialowski / AFP) (Photo by BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images)
Phil Mattingly explains why Trump has so much power over tariffs
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WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 08: Former Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA) speaks during a bill enrollment ceremony for the Respect For Marriage Act as Rep. David Cicilline (D-RI) looks on at the U.S. Capitol Building on December 08, 2022 in Washington, DC. In a 258-169 vote the House of Representatives passed the The Respect For Marriage Act which ensures marriage equality for same-sex and interracial couples. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
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