Senate

Democrats Say They’re Furious Over FTC Firings — But Maybe Not Furious Enough to Block Trump’s Nominee

Democrats said they were “looking at all our options,” as outside groups push them to commit to blocking confirmations.

Sen. Maria Cantwell.

Jacquelyn Martin/AP Jacquelyn Martin/AP

By Samuel Larreal and Claire Heddles

March 25, 2025 03:31 PM

Senate Democrats say they’re outraged about President Donald Trump firing two Democratic commissioners on the Federal Trade Commission — but they’re not sure if they should block the confirmation of one of his picks in response.

“I would be open to sending a stronger message to him,” Sen. Mazie Hirono said of the recent removal of FTC commissioners Alvaro Bedoya and Rebecca Kelly Slaughter.

When NOTUS asked about blocking confirmations, Hirono replied, “We shall see.”