Trump's Order Centralizes Control Over Federal Agencies

President Trump has issued an executive order aiming to exert more control over independent federal agencies such as the FTC, FCC, and SEC, requiring them to submit significant regulations to the White House for review. This move, part of a broader effort to consolidate executive power, allows the Office of Management and Budget to adjust agency budgets according to Trump's priorities, potentially shifting the balance of power away from Congress. Critics, including consumer advocacy groups and legal scholars, argue that this order undermines the independence intended by Congress and could lead to legal challenges. The order aligns with the unitary executive theory and marks a significant departure from traditional norms that have protected these agencies from political influence. While the Federal Reserve's monetary policy functions are exempt, the executive order's implications could disrupt the long-standing separation intended to ensure nonpartisan regulatory oversight.