Bessent Says Tariff Refund Would Be ‘Ultimate Corporate Welfare’

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said any refunds from tariffs struck down by the Supreme Court would amount to “ultimate corporate welfare,” suggesting he sees no benefit flowing to American consumers.

“If there is a payout, it’s just going to be the ultimate corporate welfare,” Bessent said on Fox News Friday hours after the high court’s ruling — which left unanswered the question of what happens with money already collected.

Bessent said litigation over refunds could turn into a months- or years-long process, and “could be a mess.” Earlier Friday, when asked about potential refunds at an Economic Club of Dallas ...