URGENT: Trump Unleashes Sweeping Power Grab, Eroding Checks on Presidential Authority

BREAKING NEWS: Trump Unleashes Sweeping Power Grab, Eroding Checks on Presidential Authority President Donald Trump has fired a member of the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) from her seat, despite her term not expiring until 2028 and a federal law requiring cause for removal. Cathy Harris was let go via email on February 10, with no explanation given. This move is seen as a significant power grab by Trump, who has been criticized for undermining the independence of various agencies and institutions. The MSPB plays a crucial role in protecting federal employees from abuses by agency management. The firing comes amid growing concerns about Trump's efforts to consolidate power and erode checks on his authority. This development marks a new low in the administration's attempts to exert control over independent agencies. Background context: The Merit Systems Protection Board is an independent, quasi-judicial agency that hears federal employees' appeals of personnel actions taken by the government. Its members are appointed for fixed terms and can only be removed for cause. The current status of Harris' removal is unclear, but it is expected to face legal challenges. The administration's move has sparked outrage among lawmakers and civil servants who see it as a brazen attempt to undermine the rule of law. This is a developing story, with further updates to follow as more information becomes available. *This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Based on reporting from Npr.*