Up First from NPR SCOTUS FTC Case, ACA Extension Vote, Zelensky In London
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Dec 8, 2025 
Andrea Hsu, a radio reporter specializing in legal matters, discusses a Supreme Court case that could change presidential power over independent agencies, highlighting the potential implications for the Federal Reserve. Deirdre Walsh, an NPR congressional correspondent, dives into the political landscape surrounding the Affordable Care Act subsidies, detailing the Democratic plan for a three-year extension amidst Republican divisions. The podcast also covers President Zelenskyy's critical meetings in London amid tensions in Ukraine and shifting U.S. policies.
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Potential Expansion Of Presidential Removal Power
- The Supreme Court is weighing whether presidents can remove independent agency leaders for any reason, reversing a 1935 precedent.
- A decision for the administration would significantly expand presidential control over regulatory agencies.
Rebecca Slaughter's Firing Sparked The Case
- The case began after the White House removed FTC commissioner Rebecca Slaughter for policy reasons rather than misconduct.
- Slaughter sued, citing a law that allows removal only for inefficiency, neglect, or malfeasance.
Administration's Constitutional Argument
- The Trump administration argues the Constitution vests all executive power in the president, allowing removal of agency officials who obstruct him.
- This challenges a long-standing view that Congress can limit removal to protect agency independence.