Donald Trump declared, “I have the right to do anything I want,” as his administration faces backlash over dismissals.
Donald Trump has drawn criticism after declaring, “I have the right to do anything I want to do. I’m the president of the United States of America.” The remark came as his administration faced allegations of undermining key institutions.
This week, the president fired CDC director Dr. Susan Monarez after she refused to endorse “unscientific, reckless directives,” according to her lawyers. The move triggered resignations, including that of chief medical officer Dr. Debra Houry, who warned: “I am unable to serve in an environment that treats CDC as a tool to generate policies that do not reflect scientific reality.”
Trump also dismissed Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook, allowing him to appoint an ally and strengthen influence over monetary policy. Cook has filed a lawsuit calling the firing unlawful.
Critics argue these actions represent a bid to consolidate power, with Trump’s allies increasingly placed in top economic and public health positions.