Summary
The U.S. Supreme Court is considering overturning a nearly 90-year-old decision that limits a president's power to fire members of independent federal agencies. The case began with President Trump firing a Federal Trade Commission member before her term ended. This legal question could change how much power the president has over independent government bodies.
Key Facts
- The Supreme Court is reviewing a 1935 ruling limiting a president's ability to fire independent agency members.
- The case involves President Trump's removal of an FTC commissioner whose term was supposed to last until 2029.
- A lower court said Trump's action exceeded presidential powers, but the decision is now under appeal.
- Conservative justices question if the old ruling fits today's government structure.
- The case relates to whether Congress can limit a president's ability to dismiss agency leaders.
- The court's conservative majority appears open to expanding presidential firing power.
- Liberal justices worry this could concentrate too much power in the presidency.
- The decision could reshape how different government parts work together.
