Trump Dismisses FTC's Two Democratic Commissioners
Donald Trump has removed the two Democratic members from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, raising concerns about diminishing bipartisan cooperation in regulatory bodies. The commissioners affected are Alvaro Bedoya and Rebecca Kelly Slaughter. Bedoya confirmed his dismissal through a social media post, stating, "As a Commissioner at the FTC, I have been illegally dismissed by the President."
He elaborated on the FTC's role, emphasizing its independence and mission to combat fraud and monopolistic practices, asserting that the agency challenges powerful figures and wins. Bedoya criticized the President's intentions, suggesting a desire to weaken the FTC's independence.
Rebecca Kelly Slaughter also addressed her removal, describing it as unlawful and contrary to established legal precedents. She expressed that her dismissal was due to her willingness to speak out, which she believes the President fears.
Slaughter voiced concerns that the removal of dissenting voices from the FTC could hinder accountability for the administration's actions. She warned that the President's influence might lead to leniency towards major corporations and their executives.
The U.S. Supreme Court's 1935 decision protects FTC commissioners from being dismissed without just cause, aiming to preserve the independence of such agencies from direct presidential control.