Slate Daily Feed What Next | Can Congress Stop Trump's Takeover?
Sep 3, 2025
Luke Broadwater, a White House reporter for The New York Times, dives into Donald Trump's efforts to consolidate power within independent agencies like the Federal Reserve and his influence over Congress. The conversation highlights rising tensions in D.C. as both parties prepare for budget battles, scrutinizing Trump’s controversial governance tactics and their implications. Broadwater also discusses the challenges posed by Trump's possible biases against federal institutions and the future of accountability in American politics.
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Executive Power Expansion
- Trump has been amassing executive power in unprecedented ways that reshape independent agencies.
- He replaces officials who contradict his preferred narratives, signalling politicization of neutral institutions.
Pressure On The Federal Reserve
- Trump seeks influence over the Federal Reserve to push lower interest rates and control monetary policy.
- Advisors warn firing Powell would spook markets, so Trump pursues softer means to gain leverage.
CDC Leadership Clash
- The CDC's leader was ousted and several senior officials resigned after clashing with the White House on scientific guidance.
- The firing and resignations are now contested in court over authority and process.