Supreme Court Greenlights Trump's FTC Shake-Up: Democrat Commissioner's Fate Hangs in Balance

Breaking News: Supreme Court Allows Trump to Fire Remaining Democrat on FTC The US Supreme Court has temporarily allowed President Trump to fire Rebecca Slaughter, the last Democrat on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), in a move that could have far-reaching implications for independent agencies. This decision comes after the court's six-member conservative majority signaled its intention to reverse a nearly century-old precedent. Timeline of Events November 2023: The Supreme Court issues an order allowing President Trump to fire Rebecca Slaughter, pending further review. December 2023: The court is set to hear arguments in the case, with many expecting the conservative majority to rule against the FTC's independence. 1935: The Supreme Court previously ruled that FTC commissioners could only be fired for misconduct, not policy disagreements. Immediate Impact and Response The decision has sparked concerns among Democrats and experts about the erosion of independent agencies' autonomy. "This is a major blow to the principles of checks and balances in our government," said Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). The FTC's independence is crucial in ensuring that regulatory decisions are made without undue influence from the executive branch. Background Context The Federal Trade Commission was created by Congress as a multi-member, bipartisan agency to regulate business practices. In 1935, the Supreme Court upheld this structure, ruling that commissioners could only be fired for misconduct. This precedent has been in place for nearly a century, but now faces potential reversal. What Happens Next The Supreme Court's decision will have significant implications for independent agencies across the US government. If the conservative majority rules against the FTC's independence, it could pave the way for future presidents to exert greater control over these agencies. The case is set to be heard in December 2023, with a ruling expected soon after. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Yro reporting.*