A federal judge has ruled that President Donald Trump cannot remove Cathy Harris from her position as chair of the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) without just cause. U.S. District Judge Rudolph Contreras, appointed by President Barack Obama, issued a ruling on Tuesday that blocked the removal, citing the MSPB’s critical need for independence in handling appeals from federal employees who are fired or disciplined.
Judge Contreras emphasized that Harris, who was appointed to a seven-year term by President Joe Biden, could only be removed for inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance. Trump had attempted to fire Harris earlier this month, prompting her legal challenge, which was supported by a temporary restraining order issued in February. The ruling serves as a significant check on the president’s authority over the independent agency, ensuring that it remains neutral and capable of fulfilling its role.
The MSPB plays a key function in protecting federal workers, offering them an avenue to challenge wrongful dismissals or disciplinary actions. The judge’s decision underscores the agency’s vital role in safeguarding workers’ rights amidst an administration pushing for significant cuts to the federal workforce.
In response to the ruling, the Trump administration quickly filed an appeal, describing the decision as an “extraordinary intrusion” into the president’s authority. The administration contends that the president should have broad power to remove high-ranking agency officials. However, Judge Contreras disagreed, citing a 90-year-old U.S. Supreme Court precedent that limits presidential power in this regard.
Harris expressed her intention to continue fighting for her position, asserting that she was prepared to take the case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court to uphold constitutional principles. “All I want to do is perform the job that Congress entrusted me with,” Harris said in a statement.
The Merit Systems Protection Board has become a key obstacle to President Trump’s efforts to rapidly reduce the federal workforce. The agency recently halted the firing of six probationary employees at the request of a government watchdog, and legal teams are working to expand protections for other employees impacted by the administration’s actions.
Since Trump took office, more than 4,800 workers have filed complaints with the MSPB, an unprecedented surge. The board, with fewer than 300 employees, has struggled to keep up with the increased caseload, with some experts warning that the lengthy legal process may discourage workers from pursuing appeals.
Harris’s removal would have jeopardized the MSPB’s ability to function effectively, as it could have resulted in the loss of a quorum needed to make decisions. Her legal battle continues to highlight the importance of the MSPB in maintaining fairness and transparency in federal employee matters.
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