Trump Signs Order Centralizing Control Over Independent Agencies

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at consolidating control over independent federal agencies, including the Federal Trade Commission and the Securities and Exchange Commission, by placing them under the oversight of the Office of Management and Budget. The order asserts that only the President and the Attorney General can interpret laws for the executive branch, effectively limiting the agencies' autonomy and requiring them to submit major regulations for White House review. This move is part of Trump's broader goal to expand presidential power, closely aligned with the unitary executive theory, which posits that the President has comprehensive authority over the executive branch. Critics have raised concerns about the potential legal challenges to this order and its implications for the separation of powers. Trump's administration argues that this order is necessary for accountability and oversight of agencies that have historically operated independently. The order is expected to face significant scrutiny and possible litigation as it tests the boundaries of executive authority.