In a scathing ruling on Thursday, U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell accused former President Donald Trump of attempting a “power grab” after he tried to oust a member of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). The judge’s decision came in response to a lawsuit filed by Gwynne Wilcox, a Biden-appointed NLRB member who was fired by Trump in what she called a “blatant violation” of federal law.
Since taking office, Trump, alongside SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, has aggressively cut federal positions to shrink the government and install loyal political appointees. Wilcox, confirmed by the Senate in September 2023, was one of the targets. She sued Trump and NLRB Chairman Marvin Kaplan, arguing that federal law only allows NLRB members to be removed for misconduct or negligence—neither of which applied to her.
In a 36-page decision, Howell didn’t mince words. She wrote that Trump’s interpretation of his constitutional powers was “flat wrong” and accused him of aspiring to act like a “king” or “dictator.”
“A President who touts an image of himself as a ‘king’ or a ‘dictator,’ perhaps as his vision of effective leadership, fundamentally misapprehends the role under Article II of the U.S. Constitution,” Howell stated. She emphasized that the president’s role is to “take care” that laws are faithfully executed, not to override congressional mandates.
The Trump administration quickly appealed the ruling, signaling a prolonged legal battle. Wilcox, however, expressed relief and readiness to return to work. “I’m ready to get back to work. It’s not just about me, but I’m glad to be the face of this fight,” she said outside the courthouse.
The White House defended Trump’s actions, calling Wilcox a “far-left appointee” with a “radical record” and arguing that such figures have no place in the Trump administration. Meanwhile, Wilcox’s lawyer, Deepak Gupta, acknowledged the uphill battle ahead but celebrated the judge’s decision as a significant victory.
This ruling highlights the ongoing tension between Trump’s executive actions and the checks and balances of the U.S. government. Howell’s decision reinforces the judiciary’s role in interpreting the law and curbing presidential overreach, even as Trump continues to push the boundaries of executive power.
As the legal battle unfolds, the case serves as a reminder of the constitutional limits on presidential authority and the importance of judicial oversight in maintaining the balance of power.
