TRUMP ATTACKS FED ON INTEREST RATES, CALLS POWELL ‘MAJOR LOSER
Trump’s rhetoric has become increasingly sharp in recent months. At campaign rallies and in interviews, he has blamed the Federal Reserve for a perceived slowdown in the U.S. economy despite easing inflation. “‘Preemptive Cuts’ in Interest Rates are being called for by many,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, where he has characterized Powell as a “major loser” and demanded immediate rate cuts.
Trump argues that elevated borrowing costs are harming businesses, hampering real estate activity, and putting unnecessary pressure on American households. Though he recently indicated he will not remove Powell before his term ends in May 2026, Trump continues to describe the Fed chair as “a total stiff” while repeating calls for lower interest rates.
POWELL STANDS FIRM ON FED INDEPENDENCE, WARNS OF TARIFF INFLATION RISKS
Powell has consistently maintained that the Federal Reserve operates independently of political influence. During his May 7 press conference, Powell stated that political pressure has no effect “at all” on the Federal Open Market Committee’s job or how they conduct monetary policy. He emphasized that all Fed decisions are based on economic data, analysis, and their dual mandate of promoting stable prices and maximum employment.In the FOMC statement released on May 7, 2025, the Fed noted that “although swings in net exports have affected the data, recent indicators suggest that economic activity has continued to expand at a solid pace.” The committee decided to maintain the target range for the federal funds rate at 4-1/4 to 4-1/2 percent, resisting Trump’s calls for cuts.
Powell indicated that if Trump’s tariffs ultimately remain at their current levels, this could delay the U.S. central bank from achieving its mandated goals, noting that “the risks of higher unemployment and higher inflation have risen.” He specifically mentioned that if high tariffs are implemented, inflation could continue, suggesting the Fed is carefully watching these trade policy developments.
TRUMP PROPOSES FEDERAL RESERVE OVERHAUL, THREATENS CENTRAL BANK INDEPENDENCE
Early in his second term, Trump has publicly stated that he would “seriously review the Federal Reserve and how it operates.” Although he has not elaborated on these remarks, they have sparked intense speculation that he may attempt to limit the central bank’s independence or reshape its institutional framework.
This would not be the first time Trump has clashed with the Fed. During his first term, he frequently criticized Powell—whom he himself appointed—for raising interest rates. At one point, rumors circulated that Trump was considering firing or demoting Powell, actions that would violate established legal norms. Trump later publicly denied those intentions.
However, this time the threat appears more concrete. Advisors close to Trump have hinted at ideas such as requiring White House approval for certain Fed decisions, increasing political oversight of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), and even amending the Federal Reserve Act.
Powell has stated that under the law, presidents may not fire or demote the Fed chair, and when asked if he would resign if Trump asked him to, Powell simply responded, “No.”
ECONOMISTS PREDICT MARKET TURBULENCE IF FED AUTONOMY COMPROMISED
The growing rift between Trump and the Federal Reserve is more than just a political dispute. It represents a fundamental challenge to the independence of the institution that underpins the stability of the U.S. economy. Economists concur that the Fed’s independence allows it to pursue its dual mandate—keeping inflation low and maintaining maximum employment—without political pressure that might prioritize short-term political gains over long-term economic health.
Concerns are growing among financial markets, policy circles, and global institutions as Trump signals he may reshape the Fed’s role and influence its decision-making. According to Krishna Guha from Evercore ISI, any attempt by Trump to fire Powell would likely trigger a steep sell-off in equity markets, with “yields higher, dollars lower and equities selling off.”
The Fed’s ability to act independently—free from short-term political pressures—is critical to maintaining investor confidence, controlling inflation, and preserving the credibility of the dollar. Undermining that independence could have far-reaching consequences, not only for the U.S. economy but for the global financial system.
In the coming months, markets will be closely watching the Fed’s assessment of interest rate cuts, the impact of Trump’s tariff policies, and the potential direction of the Federal Reserve after Powell’s term ends in May 2026.
