Federal Judge Rules Trump's Firing of Labor Board Member Unlawful

The court reinstates Gwynne Wilcox, citing statutory limits on presidential removal powers and raising questions about executive overreach.

U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell ruled that President Trump unlawfully removed National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) member Gwynne Wilcox, deeming the firing 'null and void.'
Wilcox, the first Black woman to serve on the NLRB, was confirmed in 2023 for a five-year term and reinstated to her position by the court's decision.
The judge's ruling emphasized that Congress has the authority to place limits on the president's power to remove independent agency officials, citing federal law and constitutional precedent.
The case highlights broader questions about the balance of power between the executive branch and independent agencies, with potential implications for Supreme Court review.
This marks the third instance of a federal judge finding Trump's removal of independent agency officials unlawful, setting the stage for further legal challenges.