Summary
The Supreme Court is hearing arguments in a case called Trump v. Slaughter, which could change how much control the president has over independent federal agencies. Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Solicitor General D. John Sauer had a strong debate, with Sotomayor expressing concerns that the government's position could allow the president too much power, beyond the law.
Key Facts
- The case before the Supreme Court is Trump v. Slaughter.
- The case challenges a 90-year-old precedent called Humphrey’s Executor, which limits the president's power to remove officials from independent agencies.
- President Trump removed FTC Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter without following certain legal requirements, leading to this case.
- Justice Sonia Sotomayor questioned whether removing these limits would disrupt the structure of the government.
- Solicitor General D. John Sauer argued that the president should have full power to remove officials, aligning with the Justice Department's recent positions.
- Justice Sotomayor warned that the government's argument might let the president act beyond legal limits.
- The case could give the president more control over agencies like the National Labor Relations Board.
