Safeguard agency independence to uphold democratic integrity

The principle of federal agency independence is vital for maintaining effective governance and upholding the rule of law. Recent actions by the Department of Justice threaten this bedrock precedent that has stood for nearly a century. By seeking to overturn the Humphrey's Executor decision of 1935, which limited the president's ability to remove certain federal officials, the DOJ is paving the way for increased political interference and undue influence over agencies intended to remain insulated from partisan pressures. This disturbing development could severely undermine the system of checks and balances enshrined in the Constitution. We must safeguard the autonomy of federal agencies to fulfill their designated roles free from inappropriate meddling or retaliation. Protecting this longstanding precedent is crucial for preserving the integrity of our democratic institutions.