The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that the president holds the authority to fire Federal Trade Commission (FTC) members without cause. This decision sides with former President Trump regarding his 2025 dismissal of Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter.
The ruling explicitly overturns the 1935 landmark case Humphrey's Executor v. United States. That precedent previously required specific reasons for removal, such as malfeasance or neglect of duty.
This decision expands executive power over the federal bureaucracy. It casts doubt on the independence of agencies including the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
The shift may increase political influence over regulatory enforcement and rulemaking. This change creates uncertainty for businesses in the technology, finance, and telecommunications industries.