President Donald Trump has signed a sweeping executive order that significantly expands presidential authority, bringing independent federal agencies under White House control and limiting congressional and judicial oversight. The move, based on the unitary executive theory, aims to centralize decision-making power within the executive branch.
The order reclassifies several independent agencies—including the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)—under direct presidential oversight. It grants the White House authority to set policy priorities, review agency budgets, and establish performance standards for agency heads.
Russell Vought, former director of the Office of Management and Budget, has been tasked with overseeing agency compliance with the executive order. The directive also authorizes Vought to assess agency efficiency and ensure alignment with presidential objectives. Trump has dismissed the heads of the National Labor Relations Board and the Office of Government Ethics as part of this restructuring.
The order further mandates that agency employees follow legal interpretations set by the president and attorney general, sidelining independent legal analysis. Trump stated the measure is intended to make the government “truly accountable to the American people.” However, critics argue that the move could weaken the system of checks and balances.
Trump has issued numerous executive directives in recent weeks, many of which face potential legal challenges. The latest order is expected to be contested over concerns about its impact on the separation of powers.
Elon Musk has emerged as a central figure in Trump’s government efficiency efforts. He is leading the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), tasked with reducing federal spending, eliminating waste, and streamlining operations. The initiative has already canceled billions in contracts tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion programs while prioritizing immigration law enforcement.
During a joint interview with Trump, Musk downplayed his role in the administration, calling himself “tech support” and emphasizing that his focus is on implementing Trump’s policies efficiently. Trump praised Musk’s ability to bypass bureaucratic hurdles, stating that he had been seeking a highly competent partner to expedite government operations.
The executive order represents a significant shift in federal governance, raising debate over its constitutional implications and potential long-term effects on U.S. government institutions.
Source: DailyMail
