US Court Halts Trump Administration's Attempt to Remove Federal Reserve Board Member

The **United States Courts of Appeals** serve as the intermediate appellate courts in the U.S. federal judiciary, positioned directly below the Supreme Court. Their primary role is to review decisions from the U.S. district (trial) courts and certain federal administrative agencies to determine if legal errors were made or if laws were correctly interpreted and applied. They do not re-examine factual evidence but focus on legal principles and constitutional issues raised in appeals[1][2][7]. Established structurally by the Circuit Court of Appeals Act of 1891 (Evarts Act), these courts were created to alleviate the caseload of the Supreme Court and correct trial court errors efficiently. The system is divided into 13 circuits: 11 geographically numbered circuits, the District of Columbia Circuit, and the Federal Circuit, which has nationwide jurisdiction over specialized cases such as patent law and international trade[1][3][6]. Historically, the Courts of Appeals have become the final arbiters in the majority of federal cases because the Supreme Court reviews less than 3% of their decisions. This gives them substantial influence over U.S. legal precedent and policy, impacting millions of Americans. The D.C. Circuit is notably powerful due to its jurisdiction over appeals involving federal regulatory agencies like the SEC and EPA, and its role in national security cases[1][3]. Currently, there are 179 authorized judgeships across these courts, with judges appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, serving lifetime terms. Their decisions shape legal interpretations that affect business regulation, technology innovation (especially patent law through the Federal Circuit), and broader constitutional law[1][3]. The U.S. Courts of Appeals thus function as crucial gatekeepers in the federal judiciary, balancing judicial independence with the need to provide uniform and fair application of the law, influencing significant business and technology sectors nationwide[1][3][8].

The **Trump Administration** refers to the executive branch of the United States government under President Donald J. Trump, covering two non-consecutive periods: his first term from 2017 to 2021 and his second term beginning in 2025. As an organization, it is responsible for executing federal laws, shaping public policy, and managing national affairs during its tenure. During the **first Trump Administration (2017–2021)**, the administration pursued a wide-ranging agenda focused on immigration reform, economic nationalism, deregulation, judiciary appointments, and foreign policy shifts. Key actions included building and expanding the U.S.-Mexico border wall—completing 458 miles by January 2021—and implementing strict immigration policies such as travel bans from several predominantly Muslim countries and rescinding the DAPA amnesty program[2]. The administration withdrew the U.S. from the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, renegotiated NAFTA into the USMCA, and signed the "Buy American and Hire American" executive order to prioritize American workers[1][3][5]. Judicially, Trump appointed three Supreme Court justices—Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett—significantly influencing the federal judiciary with over 200 judicial appointments[5]. The administration also focused on military expansion, combating ISIS, addressing the opioid crisis, and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic with vaccine development support[5]. Foreign policy was marked by controversial decisions including troop withdrawals from northern Syria, reinforced support for Saudi Arabia, and tensions with Iran and North Korea[4]. The administration faced two impeachments: first in 2019 over Ukraine dealings and again in 2021 following the January Capitol riot; Trump was acquitted by the Senate both times[4][5]. After losing the 2020 election, Trump returned for a **second term starting in 2025**, continuing his policy priorities with new regulatory changes and political appointments[6][8]. The Trump Administration

## Overview and Mission The Federal Reserve, often called the "Fed," is the central bank of the United States, established by Congress in 1913 to provide the nation with a safer, more flexible, and stable monetary and financial system[1]. Its mission centers on a dual mandate from Congress: to promote maximum employment and maintain price stability, ensuring the dollar retains its value over time[1]. The Fed operates through a unique hybrid structure, combining a national Board of Governors in Washington, D.C., with 12 independent regional Reserve Banks, including institutions like the Cleveland Fed[1]. This decentralized setup allows the Fed to closely monitor economic conditions across diverse regions, industries, and communities, while maintaining independence from short-term political influences[1]. ## Key Functions The Fed’s responsibilities are broad and vital to the U.S. economy. It conducts monetary policy—primarily by influencing interest rates—to achieve its employment and inflation goals[2]. The Fed also supervises and regulates banks to ensure the safety and soundness of the financial system, works to minimize systemic risks, and fosters efficient payment and settlement systems[2]. Additionally, it promotes consumer protection and community development, addressing emerging issues through research, supervision, and enforcement of consumer laws[2]. ## History and Evolution The Federal Reserve is the third central bank in U.S. history, following two failed attempts in the 19th century[1]. Its creation was a response to the financial turbulence of the early 20th century, aiming to prevent crises and stabilize the economy. Over time, the Fed has evolved, adopting more transparent and inclusive policymaking processes. For example, it now conducts regular reviews of its monetary policy framework, engaging with academics, businesses, and the public to refine its strategies and communications[3][5]. ## Recent Developments and Achievements In 2025, the Fed completed its second major review of its monetary policy strategy, tools, and communications, reaffirming its commitment to transparenc