Trump Fires Democratic FTC Members

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a day ago

Summary

President Trump fires two Democratic members of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), challenging a 1935 Supreme Court precedent. The fired commissioners were vocal critics of the administration's policies.

Key Points

The firings set up a challenge to a 1935 Supreme Court precedent prohibiting the firing of FTC commissioners for reasons other than 'good cause'.
Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter called the firings 'illegal' and stated that she was fired because she has a voice and President Trump is afraid of what she'll tell the American people.
The FTC is responsible for enforcing consumer protection and antitrust laws, and the Trump administration has aggressively challenged the authority of independent regulatory agencies.

Why It Matters

The firings have significant implications for the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches, as well as the independence of federal agencies.

Author

Kyle Wiggers

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