President Trump boosts White House oversight of independent agencies with new order

President Trump recently signed an executive order with the aim of extending the White House’s control over independent regulatory agencies, a move that is anticipated to be met with legal challenges. The order, titled “Ensuring Accountability for All Agencies,” mandates that independent organizations such as the SEC, FTC, and FCC must submit proposed regulations for review to the White House.

Additionally, the directive requires the head of the Office of Management and Budget, Russ Vought, to scrutinize the agencies’ expenditures to ensure they align with the president’s priorities. The order highlights the lack of sufficient accountability to the President and the American people, stating that regulatory agencies have been able to issue significant regulations without the review by the President.

This executive action is projected to spark a legal conflict as the affected agencies have traditionally operated with a degree of independence from the White House, as stipulated by Congress. The order is part of a broader strategy by Trump to centralize power within the executive branch and eliminate what his advisors perceive as unelected bureaucrats who could impede his agenda.

Under his administration, Trump has already dismissed several inspectors general responsible for oversight at various government agencies and removed agency heads appointed by the preceding administration. Most recently, the Trump Justice Department sought the approval of the Supreme Court to terminate the chief of a federal whistleblower protection office, setting the stage for a potential expansion of executive authority.

In conclusion, Trump’s recent directive to increase White House oversight over independent regulatory agencies has raised concerns about the consolidation of power within the executive branch and the potential impact on the balance of power between the branches of government. The clash between the President’s objectives and the traditional independence of regulatory agencies sets the stage for a legal battle that could have significant implications for executive authority and accountability within the federal government.