The Supreme Court ruled Monday that President Donald Trump had the authority to remove former Federal Trade Commission Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, a decision that could reshape the independence of federal agencies.
In a 6-3 ruling, the Court’s conservative majority held that limits on a president’s ability to remove FTC commissioners violate the Constitution’s separation of powers. Chief Justice John Roberts wrote that the FTC exercises executive power and therefore must be subject to presidential control. Justice Neil Gorsuch, concurring, wrote that “independent agencies are not so independent after all.”
The decision effectively overturns the 1935 precedent known as Humphrey’s Executor, which had protected certain independent agency officials from being fired without cause. Trump praised the ruling on Truth Social, calling it a “BIG WIN” and saying it significantly increased presidential authority. Speaking later at the White House, he said he did not expect to fire more officials, but said the ruling clarified a president’s power.
Slaughter, speaking on CNBC’s “Squawk on the Street,” said she was disappointed and argued the ruling shifts power from Congress to the president. She said FTC policy would likely become more political and raised concerns that decisions could favor allies, donors or politically connected businesses rather than being based on merit.
Trump fired Slaughter and fellow Democratic FTC Commissioner Alvaro Bedoya in March 2025, saying their continued service conflicted with his administration’s priorities. Both sued, though Bedoya later resigned and dropped his case.
The ruling did not decide whether presidents may remove Federal Reserve officials. Roberts specifically wrote that the opinion should not be read as applying to the Fed. In a separate case, the Court allowed Fed Governor Lisa Cook to remain in her position while her legal challenge proceeds.
Justice Sonia Sotomayor dissented, joined by the Court’s other liberal justices, arguing the majority overturned longstanding precedent and altered the balance of government power. Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin also criticized the ruling, saying it undermines independent agencies.