Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, a Democratic Commissioner at the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), was dismissed by President Donald Trump on Tuesday. This move has intensified concerns about diminishing bipartisanship within federal regulatory bodies. The FTC, an independent agency established 111 years ago to combat fraudulent and monopolistic practices, is now facing scrutiny over its political impartiality.
Slaughter's termination has sparked debate over the legality of her removal. The US Supreme Court ruled in 1935 that FTC commissioners could only be dismissed for good cause, such as neglecting their duties. However, Slaughter contends that her firing was unwarranted. She expressed fears that her removal is an attempt by the President to silence opposition voices within the agency.
"Because I have a voice, and he is afraid of what I’ll tell the American people," said Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, highlighting her belief that President Trump's actions were politically motivated.
The Commissioner voiced her concerns about the implications of her dismissal on the FTC's ability to hold the administration accountable. Slaughter criticized what she perceives as an effort to convert the FTC into a compliant entity serving the interests of Trump's associates.
"I’m a Commissioner at the Federal Trade Commission. The President just illegally fired me," stated Alvaro Bedoya, reinforcing Slaughter’s assertion of unlawful dismissal.
The FTC's independent status has historically enabled it to challenge prominent figures and corporations without fear or favor. The agency's staff has been known for their tenacity in tackling cases against individuals like Martin Shkreli and corporate giants such as Jeff Bezos. Slaughter fears that Trump's recent actions may undermine the agency's effectiveness in fulfilling its mandate.
In a statement provided to the Guardian and other media outlets, Slaughter emphasized the potential consequences of her removal for the FTC's operations. She argued that eliminating dissenting voices within the agency could impair its ability to function effectively and maintain its independence.
Slaughter joins another Democratic commissioner in being dismissed by Trump, a move that has further fueled concerns about political influence in regulatory agencies. Her firing raises questions about the future direction of the FTC and its capacity to operate free from political interference.