President Donald Trump has dismissed FTC Democratic commissioners Alvaro Bedoya and Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, despite legal protections that limit presidential authority over independent agencies. The move has ignited controversy, as both commissioners argue their removal violates the Supreme Court’s 1935 Humphrey’s Executor v. United States ruling, which restricts the president from firing FTC members without cause.
The White House contends that the FTC wields significant executive power, justifying the removals. However, legal experts warn that this action could undermine the agency’s independence and set a precedent for greater presidential control over regulatory bodies.
With only two commissioners remaining, both Republicans, the FTC’s ability to enforce antitrust and consumer protection laws may be significantly impacted. Bedoya and Slaughter are expected to challenge their firings in court, setting up a legal battle that could reshape the authority of independent federal agencies.
