Trump Secures Yet Another Victory at the Supreme Court, Sparking Democratic Frustration

Within the vast array of legal challenges aimed at opposing the Trump presidency, this particular matter may not dominate the news cycle—but it represents yet another success for the administration, thanks to the Supreme Court’s recent Monday orders.

Here’s the background:

Todd Harper, formerly on the National Credit Union Administration Board, filed a lawsuit following his dismissal. He targeted Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, President Donald Trump, and various officials, arguing his removal violated the law.

In July, D.C. District Judge Amir Ali ruled in Harper’s favor with a summary judgment. However, the Trump team appealed, and in August, the D.C. Circuit Court halted the decision with a stay until the appeal concluded.

Harper attempted to bypass the standard process by petitioning the Supreme Court for certiorari in September.

We’re accustomed to bold announcements when the Supreme Court issues significant decisions or urgent orders. Yet, much of its work occurs discreetly via weekly Monday order lists—the everyday administrative tasks that seldom attract widespread notice.

As the Court explains, “Order lists are released on each Monday the Court is in session.” These documents can span multiple pages, covering routine matters, case acceptance decisions, and occasionally unsigned opinions or individual justices’ statements.

Monday’s list featured this brief entry on the Harper matter:

25-367 HARPER, TODD M., ET AL. V. BESSENT, SEC. TREASURY, ET AL. The petition for a writ of certiorari before judgment is denied.

Initially, this seemed unexpected—given the administration’s solid performance at the Supreme Court, with comparable cases on agency leader removals already scheduled for arguments. But upon closer look, the petition came from Harper, seeking Supreme Court relief after the appeals court paused the lower ruling.

This outcome is clear: One more triumph for the Trump administration and a significant setback for opponents aiming to obstruct his actions, particularly regarding appointments and government worker groups.

A subtle victory, indeed—but a victory all the same. A positive start to the week.