Story perspectives

Ex-FTC Commissioners Sue Trump Over Alleged Unlawful Firings

3/28/2025

29 2

Left

Commissioners Challenge Trump

Two former FTC commissioners, Rebecca Slaughter and Alvaro Bedoya, have taken a bold stand against President Trump, alleging their unlawful firings breach federal law and Supreme Court rulings. This lawsuit could reshape the balance of power between the presidency and independent agencies, especially as a federal appeals court backs Trump's authority to dismiss agency leaders, sparking fears for regulatory independence.

Right

Trump Blocks Commissioners

A D.C. federal appeals court has temporarily sided with the Trump administration, blocking the reinstatement of NLRB member Gwynne Wilcox and MSPB head Cathy Harris, who claimed their firings violated congressional laws. This ruling sparks a debate over presidential power over independent agencies, hinting at a possible Supreme Court showdown ahead.

History

Historical Context

The recent legal actions by former FTC commissioners against President Trump echo historical tensions between presidential authority and independent agencies. In 1933, President Roosevelt's dismissal of FTC member William Humphrey sparked a Supreme Court ruling that limited presidential removal powers over quasi-judicial officials. This precedent is now challenged as courts navigate the balance of power, raising questions about regulatory independence and executive overreach in contemporary governance.

1 of 3

Commissioners Challenge Trump

Two former FTC commissioners, Rebecca Slaughter and Alvaro Bedoya, have taken a bold stand against President Trump, alleging their unlawful firings breach federal law and Supreme Court rulings. This lawsuit could reshape the balance of power between the presidency and independent agencies, especially as a federal appeals court backs Trump's authority to dismiss agency leaders, sparking fears for regulatory independence.

1 / 3