Trump Asks Supreme Court To Do What?

The Justice Department has filed an appeal with the U.S. Supreme Court, requesting the justices to approve President Trump’s decision to dismiss the head of the Office of the Special Counsel (OSC), a crucial agency that protects whistleblowers within the federal government. This marks the first significant appeal to the Supreme Court under the new Trump administration.

Earlier this month, Trump removed Hampton Dellinger, a nominee by former President Biden, from his position as head of the OSC. Lower courts ruled to temporarily reinstate Dellinger, leading the Justice Department to seek a decisive ruling from the Supreme Court. Acting Solicitor General Sarah Harris emphasized the importance of the case, calling it an “unprecedented assault on the separation of powers” that demands immediate attention and resolution from the nation’s highest court.

Dellinger’s role as special counsel is unique, giving him significant authority to challenge actions taken by the Trump administration. The OSC is designed to safeguard federal employees who expose wrongdoing within the government, ensuring that whistleblowers are protected from retaliation. The office also plays a critical role in enforcing the Hatch Act, which stops federal employees from interacting with political activity while on the job.

While Dellinger’s attorney, Joshua Matz, declined to comment, the case represents a larger legal struggle. Several lawsuits have been filed against Trump’s efforts to restructure the federal government, including challenges to the dismissals of other Senate-confirmed officials. These legal battles also involve Democratic appointees from various agencies, including inspectors general and the National Labor Relations Board.

The filing with the Supreme Court follows a decision by the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals to reject the Trump administration’s appeal, noting that such temporary orders are generally not eligible for appeal. The Justice Department’s filing argues that no court in U.S. history has ever issued an injunction requiring a President to retain an agency head who does not align with their executive vision. The case is now poised to set a significant legal precedent regarding presidential authority and the firing of government officials.