US Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has taken a steely stance against President Donald Trump's escalating attacks, announcing that he will not be swayed by threats as a criminal investigation unfolds.
In a video statement released Sunday night, Powell appeared calm and composed, but with an unmistakable sense of resolve. He reiterated his unwavering commitment to upholding the Federal Reserve's mandate of price stability and maximum employment, despite facing intense pressure from Trump.
Powell's assertion that public service requires standing firm in the face of threats is a clear message to Trump and his allies. The Fed Chair has built a reputation as a consensus-builder during his eight-year tenure, but has also shown a willingness to challenge the status quo when necessary.
Trump's relentless campaign against Powell has been marked by vitriolic social media posts and handwritten missives. However, Powell has remained unflinching, politely declining to answer questions he considers political at press conferences.
The criminal investigation into Powell is reportedly focused on those renovations at the Fed's headquarters, but the chair described it as "pretext" for the White House's attempts to undermine his authority. By framing this campaign as a threat to the Fed's independence, Powell has highlighted the stakes of this confrontation.
As the face of the Federal Reserve, Powell's role is delicate and powerful. His statements can send shockwaves through global markets, making him a key player in shaping economic policy. With his term set to conclude in May, Powell's stance on Trump's attacks raises questions about who will succeed him as Chair.
The latest escalation has thrust the world's most influential central bank into uncharted waters, with the future of the institution hanging in the balance. Powell's steadfastness serves as a reminder that the Fed's independence is under siege and its survival is not guaranteed unless it stands firm against this assault on its authority.
In a video statement released Sunday night, Powell appeared calm and composed, but with an unmistakable sense of resolve. He reiterated his unwavering commitment to upholding the Federal Reserve's mandate of price stability and maximum employment, despite facing intense pressure from Trump.
Powell's assertion that public service requires standing firm in the face of threats is a clear message to Trump and his allies. The Fed Chair has built a reputation as a consensus-builder during his eight-year tenure, but has also shown a willingness to challenge the status quo when necessary.
Trump's relentless campaign against Powell has been marked by vitriolic social media posts and handwritten missives. However, Powell has remained unflinching, politely declining to answer questions he considers political at press conferences.
The criminal investigation into Powell is reportedly focused on those renovations at the Fed's headquarters, but the chair described it as "pretext" for the White House's attempts to undermine his authority. By framing this campaign as a threat to the Fed's independence, Powell has highlighted the stakes of this confrontation.
As the face of the Federal Reserve, Powell's role is delicate and powerful. His statements can send shockwaves through global markets, making him a key player in shaping economic policy. With his term set to conclude in May, Powell's stance on Trump's attacks raises questions about who will succeed him as Chair.
The latest escalation has thrust the world's most influential central bank into uncharted waters, with the future of the institution hanging in the balance. Powell's steadfastness serves as a reminder that the Fed's independence is under siege and its survival is not guaranteed unless it stands firm against this assault on its authority.