Judge Rules Trump's Firing of Whistleblower Watchdog Unlawful, Case Likely Headed to Supreme Court

Federal judge Amy Berman Jackson reinstates Hampton Dellinger as head of the Office of Special Counsel, citing legal protections for the role's independence.

U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson ruled that President Trump's dismissal of Hampton Dellinger violated federal law protecting the independence of the Office of Special Counsel.
The Office of Special Counsel, tasked with protecting whistleblowers and investigating misconduct, is legally insulated from removal except for specific causes such as inefficiency or malfeasance.
The Trump administration argued the removal protections are unconstitutional, asserting they infringe on the president's authority over executive branch personnel.
The Justice Department has already appealed the ruling, and the case is widely expected to reach the Supreme Court for a final decision on presidential removal powers.
This legal battle could set a significant precedent for the balance of power between the executive branch and independent federal agencies.