Trump Dismisses FTC’s Democratic Commissioners in Controversial Move

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump dismissed two Democratic commissioners from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) on March 18, 2025, igniting concerns over the independence of regulatory agencies. Sources familiar with the situation confirmed that Trump removed Commissioners Alvaro Bedoya and Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, marking the latest in a series of belt-tightening changes within independent regulatory bodies.

This move follows a pattern established by Trump, who has previously ousted members from other independent agencies, including the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). Regulatory experts view these actions as significant tests of the boundaries of presidential power over independent agencies.

The FTC, created to protect consumers and maintain competition, has historically been shielded from political pressures. A landmark ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1935 established that FTC commissioners can only be removed for good cause, such as neglecting their duties. This precedent aims to safeguard the regulatory process from direct control by the White House.

“These direct interventions raise serious questions about the autonomy of regulatory bodies,” said legal analyst Margaret Green. “The FTC’s ability to enforce laws objectively is critical in maintaining fair markets, and such firings can undermine public confidence in its mission.”

The dismissals come amid ongoing debates surrounding antitrust actions against major corporations and the increasing influence of technology in daily life. With Bedoya and Slaughter advocating for stricter regulations, Trump’s decision appears to shift the balance of the commission as it approaches important rulings.

Political analysts speculate that the administration aims to consolidate power in agencies typically known for bipartisan oversight. This shift could have long-lasting effects on federal regulation, especially in the burgeoning fields of technology and digital markets.

Commenting on the situation, FTC spokesperson Joshua Wang stated, “We are committed to executing our statutory duties to protect consumers and ensure competitive markets, regardless of the leadership composition.”

As the political landscape continues to evolve, the impact of these changes at the FTC will likely become clearer in upcoming months as the commission addresses various regulatory challenges.