#TrumpVsPowell
The ongoing conflict between former President Donald Trump and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has escalated in recent days, with Trump publicly demanding Powell’s removal, claiming his "termination cannot come fast enough" due to disagreements over interest rate policies . Trump argues that the Fed should aggressively cut rates to stimulate economic growth, citing falling oil and grocery prices as justification, while Powell maintains that the Fed’s independence is legally protected and that decisions must remain data-driven, especially given inflationary risks from Trump’s sweeping tariffs . This tension is not new—Trump frequently criticized Powell during his first term for raising rates, despite having appointed him in 2018 . Now, with Trump back in office, he has renewed threats to oust Powell, though legal experts contend the president lacks authority to fire a Fed chair without cause . Powell has firmly stated he will not resign, emphasizing that the Fed’s mandate—stable prices and maximum employment—requires insulation from political pressure . Meanwhile, economists warn that undermining Fed independence could destabilize markets, with Senator Elizabeth Warren predicting a market "crash" if Trump succeeds . The dispute highlights broader concerns over Trump’s economic policies, particularly his tariffs, which Powell warns could trigger inflation and unemployment, further complicating the Fed’s decision-making . As the Supreme Court considers a case that could weaken protections for independent agencies, Powell’s fate—and the Fed’s autonomy—hangs in the balance .