Trump Fires Trumka, Hoehn-Saric, Boyle From CPSC After DOGE Visit; Agency Now Two Republicans

President Donald Trump has dismissed three Democratic commissioners—Richard Trumka Jr., Alex Hoehn-Saric, and Mary Boyle—from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), following a visit from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The firings, confirmed by the White House, leave the independent agency with two Republican members, Acting Chairman Peter Feldman and Douglas Dziak, on its five-person board. The CPSC evaluates the safety of consumer products. Trumka stated his term runs until 2028 and said he would continue his work, while Boyle also indicated her intent to serve out her term. Both, along with Hoehn-Saric, disputed the legality of their removal, arguing that commissioners can only be dismissed for malfeasance or neglect of duty. The White House and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt have asserted that the president, as head of the executive branch, has the right to remove officials within it. Stephen Miller, a senior adviser, described the dismissals as the president's prerogative. Lawmakers, including Sen. Ed Markey, and advocacy groups such as Consumer Reports, have criticized the firings, arguing that they undermine the independence of the CPSC. The DOGE visit and subsequent actions are part of broader government efficiency and staff reduction efforts. In a related development, at least half a dozen USAID employees are under investigation for engaging with the press without authorization after being notified of termination as part of DOGE-led staff cuts overseen by Elon Musk. The employees' formal dismissal date was delayed, and they have been warned of possible disciplinary action, including removal from the agency.