Comedian John Mulaney Attends Urgent Supreme Court Hearing on Trump Tariffs
UPDATE: Comedian John Mulaney was spotted at the U.S. Supreme Court today as justices heard urgent arguments regarding President Donald Trump’s controversial tariffs. The hearing, held on November 5, 2025, centers on whether Trump overstepped his authority in imposing tariffs on nearly every country in the world.
Mulaney’s presence was not merely for entertainment; he attended to support his friend Neal Katyal, a prominent lawyer representing companies challenging the legality of the tariffs. Katyal, a former Acting U.S. Solicitor General, argued that Trump’s actions, taken under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), were unlawful.
As the nine justices deliberated on this significant case, Mulaney listened intently, showcasing his deep interest in law and civic issues. Akhil Reed Amar, a Yale Law School professor and mutual friend, remarked on Mulaney’s commitment: “He is a serious public intellectual with a deep interest in law and American civics,” Amar stated.
After the hearing, Mulaney shared a humorous post on social media, highlighting his attendance with an illustration from C-Span communications director Howard Mortman, captioning it, “Cheap seats but a great show.”
Katyal and Mulaney are collaborating on a new television show about the Supreme Court, described by Katyal as “kind of ‘West Wing for the Supreme Court.'” This creative endeavor aims to promote discussions on justice through the arts, emphasizing Mulaney’s engagement with legal matters.
Interestingly, Mulaney’s familial background adds layers to his legal interests; both of his parents are attorneys. His mother, Ellen Mulaney, is a law professor, while his father, Charles Mulaney, is a corporate lawyer. This legal lineage has clearly influenced Mulaney’s deep dive into constitutional discussions.
This isn’t Mulaney’s first brush with the Supreme Court. He previously moderated a discussion featuring Justice Sonia Sotomayor at a Yale reunion event. Amar noted that Mulaney’s fascination with law is evident, saying, “He wants to read the briefs,” referring to a recent email Mulaney sent requesting an amicus brief from Amar’s brother, a law professor.
The Supreme Court arguments today were lively, filled with moments of levity. Justice Samuel Alito joked about Katyal’s arguments on the nondelegation doctrine, eliciting laughter from the audience. Furthermore, Oregon Solicitor General Benjamin Gutman, who argued against the tariffs, also sparked amusement with his clever analogy comparing tax distinctions to pastries.
As the legal community and the public await the Court’s decision, Mulaney’s involvement underscores the intersection of popular culture and critical civic discourse. The outcome of this case may have lasting implications, not only for Trump’s tariffs but also for the balance of power between the presidency and Congress.
Stay tuned for more updates as this pivotal legal battle unfolds.
