Emre Yumlu 
U.S. President Donald Trump has called for Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell to resign immediately. This latest move is seen not only as a critique of Powell’s economic policies but also as the continuation of a long-standing personal and institutional tension dating back to 2018.
In recent weeks, Trump once again targeted Powell via Truth Social, posting: “CUT INTEREST RATES, JEROME, AND STOP PLAYING POLITICS!” His comments came at a time when Powell has remained firm on keeping interest rates elevated to combat inflation, resisting political pressure for aggressive rate cuts.
Trump’s Criticism of Powell Isn’t New
During his previous presidency, Trump frequently criticized the Fed’s interest rate decisions in public. In 2019, he famously stated, “If he resigns, I wouldn’t stop him,” referring to Powell. That same year, Trump openly admitted, “I’m not happy with Powell; I don’t think he’s doing a good job,” expressing his frustration with the Fed’s independent monetary policy stance.
Meanwhile, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently told Bloomberg TV that the White House would begin interviewing candidates this fall to potentially replace Powell when his term ends in May 2026. However, Trump’s aggressive tone suggests that waiting another year may not be part of the plan.
While Bessent stressed that removing Powell is not currently on the agenda, Trump’s rhetoric has reopened the debate. Bessent also highlighted the importance of protecting the Fed’s monetary role, calling it “a jewel box that must be preserved,” but noted there is room to discuss the Fed’s regulatory responsibilities more broadly.
Trump’s renewed attacks reflect not just dissatisfaction with current interest rate policies, but also an ongoing effort to reshape the central bank’s independence. As the 2024 U.S. elections approach, the Trump-Powell conflict will remain a closely watched dynamic with implications for both economic stability and political power.
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