WASHINGTON (June 29, 2026) – Earlier today the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Trump administration in Trump v. Slaughter, overturning nearly a century of precedent protecting the independence of federal agencies. The decision gives presidents broad authority to remove leaders of previously independent agencies, weakening longstanding safeguards designed to insulate agency decision-making from political influence and preserve the role of independent expertise in guiding policymaking and serving the public.
Below is a statement from Dr. Jennifer Jones, director of the Center for Science and Democracy at the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS):
“Today’s decision marks a profound shift in how our government functions. Independent agencies and career experts exist to provide objective analysis and help policymakers make informed decisions based on the best available evidence. By allowing presidents to fire agency leaders at will, the Court has weakened an essential safeguard against political interference and made it harder for experts to do their jobs without fear of retaliation.
“Independent institutions are a cornerstone of a healthy democracy because they help ensure the government serves the public, not the interests of those in power. This decision takes power from independent institutions and gives it to the president. As power becomes more concentrated in the executive branch, accountability is weakened and evidence-based decision-making becomes more vulnerable to political pressure.
“The decision is part of a broader Trump administration pattern of attacking science and expertise in government by eroding the independence of the federal workforce, making it easier for political leaders to sideline experts and disregard evidence that is politically inconvenient.
“The effects of this decision will extend beyond any single administration. If presidents have the power to replace agency leadership at will, agencies risk losing the continuity, institutional knowledge and experience necessary to carry out their missions effectively. The result is a government less equipped to protect public health, safeguard the environment and serve the public interest.
“At a time when the independence of government experts and institutions is under increasing pressure, stronger safeguards for scientific integrity are more important than ever. The Scientific Integrity Act would help ensure that federal scientists can communicate their findings without political interference and that government decisions are informed by the best available science.”
The Union of Concerned Scientists puts rigorous, independent science to work to solve our planet’s most pressing problems. Joining with people across the country, we combine technical analysis and effective advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for a healthy, safe and sustainable future. For more information, go to www.ucs.org.