[throwaway2048]

The government doesn't need the authority and power, it already has it, Facebook could be turned off tomorrow if the government decided it wanted to do so. What it needs is a plan and motivation to do so.

He can provide both in spades.

[thwythwy]

If Facebook was turned off tomorrow, they'd be at the steps of the Supreme Court faster than you can say "due process." The FTC could barely enforce baseline info security reqs without the Third Circuit knocking that agency on its backside. With a pro-business SCOTUS and the type of leverage this company has on every Senate and House race in America, I really don't think you're using the word "power" the same way I was if you believe the government has enough to make this happen.

[gpm]

For what it's worth

- The supreme court is part of the government

- The government is empowered to change the constitution, including disbanding the supreme court.

- The vast majority of the time Congress passing an explicit law instead of an agency making some rules would satisfy the existing supreme court with the existing constitution anyways.