The Supreme Court Just Rewarded Trump for Brazenly Breaking the Law

The Supreme Court has granted Donald Trump a significant win by breaking away from decades of protecting agency leaders from presidential removal. In a recent ruling, the court allowed Trump to dismiss leaders of two independent agencies, despite federal laws protecting them from such actions. While the decision is not final, it suggests that the conservative majority is inclined to give Trump extensive control over the executive branch, except for some special cases.

Dahlia Lithwick and Mark Joseph Stern discussed the court’s ruling on Trump in a recent episode, emphasizing the implications of the decision. Trump’s ability to remove agency heads without proper cause showcases the court’s support for Trump’s authority over federal agencies, potentially undermining their intended independence. The dissenting opinion from Justice Elena Kagan criticizes the majority for enabling Trump to consolidate power and potentially abuse it for personal and political gain.

The ruling has raised concerns about the court’s alignment with Trump’s agenda and its impact on the separation of powers. While the court asserts its independence in some cases, it appears more deferential to Trump’s authority in others, potentially emboldening him to disregard legal constraints. The decision highlights the court’s willingness to support Trump’s vision of the law, which could have long-term implications for the balance of power within the government.