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Federal Trade Commission Directs Staff to Omit “Independent” Descriptor
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has reportedly instructed its staff to cease referring to the agency as “independent” in official complaints. This directive, signaling a potential shift in the agency’s portrayal, comes amidst ongoing scrutiny of the FTC’s autonomy under the current administration.
Internal Memo Details Language Revision
According to an internal communication, the Bureau of Consumer Protection Director issued an email on March 21st, outlining the revised language. The memo, distributed to bureau directors and deputies, specifically instructs staff to modify the description of the FTC in legal filings. The updated phrasing now describes the “FTC as an agency of the United States Government created by the FTC Act,” removing the previously included term “independent.”
Concerns Over Agency Autonomy
This alteration in language is viewed by some as a further indication of potential influence from the executive branch over the traditionally impartial regulatory body. Recent actions by the administration have raised questions about the FTC’s operational independence. An executive order signed earlier this year granted the White House increased oversight over regulatory agencies, prompting concerns about political interference.
Executive Actions and Commissioner Dismissals
Adding to these concerns, the President recently dismissed two Democratic commissioners at the FTC. This action has been challenged as potentially contravening established legal norms regarding the removal of officials from independent bodies. A legal challenge has been initiated by the removed commissioners, citing a Supreme Court precedent that limits the President’s power to dismiss such officials without sufficient cause. Correspondence from the White House, included in the legal filing, reportedly asserts that the current composition of the FTC is “inconsistent with my Administration’s priorities,” further fueling debate about political influence.
FTC Chair Responds to Scrutiny
FTC Chair Andrew Ferguson, a Republican appointee, has publicly defended the administration’s actions. In response to the legal challenge initiated by the dismissed commissioners, Ferguson stated his confidence that “President Trump’s lawful powers will ultimately be confirmed.” This public stance underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the FTC’s independence and its relationship with the executive branch.
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