Behind the Money The FTC commissioner fired by Trump
May 7, 2025
Alvaro Bedoya, a former commissioner of the Federal Trade Commission, shares his gripping story of being fired by the Trump administration, which he argues was illegal. He delves into the implications of political influence on regulatory practices and consumer protection, emphasizing the FTC's autonomy. Bedoya discusses how political pressures may undermine antitrust enforcement, especially among appointees. He also connects corporate behavior and political donations, raising concerns about the balance of power in regulatory oversight.
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Immediate Dismissal Email
- Alvaro Bedoya received an immediate dismissal email from the White House while at his daughter's gymnastics class.
- The email stated his continued service at the FTC was inconsistent with the president's priorities.
Legal Protection for Commissioners
- The Supreme Court case Humphrey's Executor protects FTC commissioners from being fired without cause.
- This safeguard is crucial for maintaining agency independence and market stability including protecting Fed Chair Jerome Powell.
FTC's Independent Agency Status
- The FTC's independence means commissioners can only be removed for cause such as inefficiency or malfeasance.
- This protects the agency from political influence, allowing development of expertise and consistent market regulation.