Supreme Court expands presidential power, protects Fed

On June 29, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court issued two landmark rulings on presidential power. In Trump v. Slaughter, the Court ruled 6-3 that President Donald Trump can fire the heads of most independent federal agencies at will, overturning the 1935 precedent Humphrey's Executor v. United States. This decision applies to agencies like the United States — Federal Trade Commission, United States — National Labor Relations Board, and United States — United States Consumer Product Safety Commission. In Trump v. Cook, the Court ruled 5-4 that Trump cannot immediately fire United States — Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, preserving the Fed's independence. The Court held that Cook is entitled to procedural protections before removal and that the Fed's unique historical role justifies its exemption from the broader ruling. The decisions reshape the balance of power between the presidency and independent agencies, with significant implications for monetary policy, financial regulation, and the broader economy. The Court also issued rulings on immigration, voting rights, transgender rights, and birthright citizenship during its term.