Donald Trump has taken a step that previous U.S. presidents have avoided, a move that experts say could significantly broaden his authority.
During his second term, Trump has rapidly issued several executive orders. These include renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, imposing tariffs on Canada and China, and implementing restrictions on transgender women in sports. Earlier this month, he revoked Covid-19 vaccine mandates in schools, ended the use of paper straws in federal procurement, and established the White House Faith Office, replacing the previous Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives.
On February 18, President Trump, 78, signed a new executive order placing independent federal agencies under White House oversight.
Implications for Independent Agencies
The order mandates that agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) must now submit proposed regulations for presidential review rather than autonomously approving them. These agencies are also required to collaborate with lawmakers on their strategic priorities.
Crucially, the directive specifies no exceptions for former independent agencies, except for the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy. It asserts that all executive branch officials are under the president’s supervision, with the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) ensuring fiscal responsibility.
“The President and the Attorney General will interpret the law for the executive branch, preventing conflicting interpretations by separate agencies,” the order states.
The FTC, SEC, and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) are explicitly mentioned, with Trump criticizing them for wielding significant influence without presidential oversight. He claims their regulations have previously cost the nation billions and vows to ensure future rules undergo proper review.
The order emphasizes, “Executive power without accountability has no place in our Republic. Our Founders established a single President to ensure the faithful execution of the laws.”
Operational Changes and Oversight
Russell Vought, acting director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, will be tasked with setting performance standards for agency heads. He will provide regular updates to Trump on the agencies’ efficiency and recommend budget adjustments in line with the president’s agenda.
Expanding Presidential Power
By bringing independent agencies under his control, Trump is consolidating presidential authority to a degree not seen in recent history. Unlike his predecessors, including Barack Obama, who refrained from encroaching on these agencies’ independence, Trump is challenging that norm. Some agency leaders, now subject to Trump’s oversight, have historically outlasted the presidents who appointed them.
This bold move could position Trump as one of the most powerful presidents in U.S. history.
