The Supreme Court case Trump v. Wilcox centers on the "unitary executive" theory, which asserts that the president has complete control over the executive branch, including agencies traditionally considered independent. This case challenges the dismissal of federal officials who were fired by Trump despite legal protections against at-will termination.
The unitary executive theory stems from the Constitution's vesting of "executive Power" in the president. Its strongest interpretation grants the president the power to control all federal employees outside of Congress and the judiciary. The article notes that the definition of "executive" is itself vague and subject to interpretation.
The case revisits the 1935 Humphrey's Executor v. United States ruling that protects some agency officials from presidential dismissal. The article points out the Republican justices' disdain for this precedent, suggesting a potential overruling in favor of expanding presidential power. Weakening or eliminating such protections could lead to significant consequences, such as allowing politically motivated firings of civil servants and influencing bodies like the Federal Reserve.
The potential expansion of presidential power, particularly concerning the Federal Reserve, could lead to economic instability. The article highlights the negative consequences of political interference in the Federal Reserve's decisions. The author expresses concern that granting Trump full control over such an institution could exacerbate economic turmoil already seen under his administration.