Judicial Pushback, Agency Reins, and Climate Investments: U.S. Braces for Shifting Power

Supreme Court May Overturn 90‑Year‑Old Precedent Limiting Presidential Removal Powers

The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case that could upend the 1935 Humphrey’s Executor decision, which limits presidential power to fire heads of independent agencies only for cause—such as neglect or misconduct. This move follows the Court’s recent emergency ruling allowing President Trump to remove Rebecca Slaughter from the Federal Trade Commission, a Democrat appointed without allegations of misconduct. Legal analysts warn that reversing Humphrey’s could significantly erode regulatory independence and alter how federal agencies operate.

Offshore Wind Project Resumes After Federal Court Blocks Trump Administration’s Halt

A federal judge has blocked the Trump administration’s stop‑work order on Ørsted’s Revolution Wind project off the coast of Rhode Island, finding the administration’s arguments over national security and research disruption to be legally insufficient. The project, which is a multibillion‑dollar venture with Skyborn Renewables and will supply power to hundreds of thousands of homes in Rhode Island and Connecticut, had been halted in August. Judge Royce Lamberth granted a preliminary injunction, citing both financial harms to Ørsted and regulatory inconsistency.

Economy Shows Cooling Signs Amid Rising Inventories and Slower Demand

Recent data indicate that U.S. factories are accumulating large levels of unsold inventory as demand softens in both goods and services. Business activity, especially in manufacturing, has decelerated, and hiring has begun to taper off. Analysts see these as early warnings of broader slowing of economic momentum. Though inflation pressures may ease if demand remains weak, risks include reduced consumer confidence and possible job losses.

President Trump Designates Antifa as a Domestic Terror Organization — Sparks Controversy

President Trump has issued an executive order formally designating Antifa as a “domestic terrorist organization,” following the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The move is highly contentious; critics argue that the designation lacks clear legal definitions and may infringe on free speech or civil liberties. The announcement came alongside statements regarding autism research and guidelines on acetaminophen use in pregnancy—both of which drew sharp criticism from medical professionals for lacking scientific support.

Legal Clash Over Removing Fed Governor Highlights Institutional Independence

Lisa Cook, a member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve, filed suit challenging her removal by President Trump. A judge in Washington, D.C. issued a preliminary injunction preventing the removal, finding that the president lacked a valid cause under the Federal Reserve Act. The case has become emblematic of broader tensions between executive claims of power and traditional safeguards meant to preserve the independence of critical institutions.

Looking Ahead

In the coming weeks, much attention will focus on the Supreme Court’s oral arguments in the case challenging Humphrey’s Executor, expected by December, which could reshape presidential authority over many regulatory bodies. Legal rulings related to the removal of independent officials—especially the Cook case—might establish new legal norms. On the economic front, upcoming employment figures, inflation data, and consumer demand trends will be key to understanding whether the current slowdown intensifies or stabilizes. Finally, regulatory battles over energy projects, climate policy, and designations of domestic threats are likely to spark further legal and political dispute as lines between public safety, environmental goals, and executive power remain contested.