Trump’s pressure on Powell to lower rates comes to a head
News September 18, 2025

Trump’s pressure on Powell to lower rates comes to a head

President Trump’s pressure on Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell to lower interest rates will come to a head Wednesday at a pivotal meeting of the central bank. Trump has sought to reshape the Federal Reserve, pushing to remove board of governors member Lisa Cook and tapping White House economic adviser Stephen Miran to fill a...

**Trump’s Pressure on Powell to Lower Rates Comes to a Head**

Washington D.C. - President Donald Trump's persistent calls for the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates are expected to reach a critical point on Wednesday during a key meeting of the central bank. The meeting promises to be a tense affair, highlighting the ongoing friction between the White House and the independent institution tasked with managing the nation's monetary policy.

For months, President Trump has publicly criticized Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, urging him to implement more aggressive interest rate cuts. Trump argues that lower rates would stimulate the economy, boost growth, and make American businesses more competitive on the global stage. He has frequently taken to social media and public appearances to voice his displeasure with the Fed's current policies, breaking with decades of tradition that saw presidents avoid commenting directly on the Fed's actions to maintain its independence.

Beyond verbal pressure, President Trump has also sought to exert influence over the composition of the Federal Reserve's leadership. His efforts to reshape the central bank include attempts to remove current board of governors member Lisa Cook, a move that signals his desire to install individuals more aligned with his economic views. Furthermore, he has nominated White House economic advisor Stephen Miran to fill a vacant position on the board. These appointments, if confirmed, could significantly alter the balance of power within the Fed and potentially lead to a shift in its monetary policy direction.

The Federal Reserve, traditionally operating with a high degree of independence from political influence, is tasked with maintaining price stability and maximizing employment. The central bank's decisions on interest rates have far-reaching effects on the economy, influencing everything from borrowing costs for consumers and businesses to the overall pace of economic growth.

The outcome of Wednesday's meeting remains uncertain, but the heightened pressure from the White House adds a layer of complexity to the Fed's deliberations. Observers are keenly watching to see whether the central bank will yield to the President's demands or maintain its course, prioritizing its mandate of economic stability over political considerations. The decisions made at this meeting will undoubtedly have significant implications for the U.S. economy in the months and years to come.
Category: Politics