Published：Jun 29, 12:34Last updated：Jul 1, 19:02

Supreme Court Expands Presidential Power Over Independent Agencies in Landmark Ruling

Jun. 29, 2026 12:34

On June 29, 2026, the Supreme Court ruled that Federal Reserve Chair Lisa Cook can retain her position, while upholding other executive actions by former President Donald Trump. The decision was part of the Court’s final week of rulings.

Summarized

52News

22Media

Jul. 1, 2026 08:51

The conservative-majority Supreme Court ruled on Monday, June 29, that the US president can dismiss heads of independent federal agencies for political reasons. Law professor Idris Fassassi criticized the decision, calling it a step toward an "imperial presidency." The ruling has sparked debate over the balance of power in the US government.

Jul. 1, 2026 19:02

Following a court victory, former President Trump's influence over firing powers is affecting US agencies. Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, a former FTC commissioner, is mentioned in relation to a case argued in December. The article was published on July 1, 2026.

The US Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that President Trump has broad authority to dismiss heads of independent federal agencies, including FTC Commissioner Rebecca Slaughter, overturning a 1935 precedent that limited presidential removal powers. The landmark decision significantly expands executive control over regulatory bodies while maintaining protections for the Federal Reserve. Trump hailed the ruling as a "major victory," though critics warn it creates an "imperial presidency" by shifting power from Congress to the executive branch.China.org+2

🏛️ Fed's Special Status Preserved

While granting Trump dismissal powers over most independent agencies, the Court maintained unique protections for Federal Reserve leadership. This exception shields officials like Governor Lisa Cook from political removal, preserving central bank independence. The split decision reflects the judiciary's recognition of the Fed's distinct role in economic stability.Huanqiu+2

⚖️ Constitutional Power Reshaped

The ruling overturns the Humphrey's Executor precedent that had protected agency heads since 1935. Chief Justice John Roberts argued officials exercising executive power must be subject to presidential control, while Justice Sonia Sotomayor's dissent warned of unprecedented executive overreach. The decision fundamentally alters the balance between branches of government.China.org+2

👥 Judicial Divisions Highlighted

The 6-3 split revealed deep ideological divides, with conservative justices largely supporting expanded presidential authority and liberals warning of constitutional imbalance. Notably, some conservatives showed restraint regarding the Fed, demonstrating nuanced views on executive power limits amid broader expansions.Huanqiu+2

📊 Immediate Political Impact

The decision makes most agency leaders immediately vulnerable to dismissal while protecting Fed officials. Legal experts predict challenges to the ruling's scope, particularly regarding which agencies qualify for exceptions. The case marks a significant victory for Trump's agenda of increasing executive control over federal bureaucracy.China.org+2

Lisa CookDonald TrumpSupreme CourtFederal ReserveRebecca Kelly Slaughter