The FTC is down to two commissioners

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) currently has only two sitting commissioners as of November 2025, following a series of resignations and removals of other members earlier this year.​

Background

The FTC is typically structured with five commissioners who are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate, with no more than three from the same political party. However, recent events have left the commission severely understaffed.​

Recent Changes

• President Trump fired two Democratic commissioners, Rebecca Kelly Slaughter and Alvaro Bedoya, in March 2025, leading to legal challenges and a high-profile court case, particularly regarding the grounds for removal of independent agency commissioners.​

• Bedoya officially resigned in June 2025 after initially contesting his firing, while Slaughter’s reinstatement was temporarily blocked by the Supreme Court in September 2025.​

• Most recently, Republican commissioner Melissa Holyoak stepped down in November 2025, which leaves the Commission with only two active members at the moment.​

Implications

With only two commissioners, the FTC may face limitations in conducting some of its business, as its rules normally require a majority of commissioners for a quorum. This unusual situation raises concerns about the Commission’s ability to pursue major initiatives, enforce regulations, and maintain political balance.​