### Powell Affirms Independence Amid Speculation of a Trump Return

In a firm declaration of independence, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome H. Powell stated unequivocally on Thursday that he would not step down if asked to do so by former President Donald J. Trump. Powell underscored that neither resignation nor dismissal by Trump was within the realm of possibility.

Appointed by Trump in 2018, Powell's relationship with the former president quickly deteriorated when he resisted calls to lower interest rates. While Trump considered removing or demoting Powell, his advisors determined that such a move would likely be unfeasible.

Since leaving office, Trump has remained vocally critical of the Federal Reserve, raising new rumors that he might attempt to oust Powell or pressure him into resigning. When questioned about these possibilities, Powell explicitly stated he would not resign, and emphasized that the President lacks the authority to remove him before the end of his term in May 2026.

Powell's comments came during a news conference following the central bank's decision to cut interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point. While Fed officials signal the likelihood of further cuts, they offered no specific timeline or amount for future reductions.

Despite the Fed’s attempt to remain apolitical, Trump’s persistent commentary on its policies continues to cast a shadow over its operations. Nonetheless, Powell reiterated that the Federal Reserve's decisions remain insulated from political influence, asserting that public pressure from Trump or any other figure does not sway the institution's policy choices.