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Supreme Court Questions Trump’s Attempt to Dismiss Fed Governor Lisa Cook

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Justices probe presidential power and Fed independence The high court heard arguments on Trump’s bid to remove Governor Lisa Cook, with several justices pressing how the case could affect the Federal Reserve’s insulation from political pressure [1][2][3][4]. Justices repeatedly warned that a ruling permitting dismissal might erode the central bank’s autonomy, a theme echoed across all outlets [1][2][3][4]. Many suggested waiting for lower‑court rulings to avoid a rushed decision that could destabilize monetary policy [1][4].

Kavanaugh, Barrett, and Roberts each flag broader stakes Justice Brett Kavanaugh warned that allowing Cook’s removal could “weaken, if not shatter” Fed independence [1][2][3][4]. Justice Amy Coney Barrett asked the administration how a stay might harm the public interest, citing amicus‑brief economists who warned a stay could trigger a recession [5]. Chief Justice John Roberts hinted the Court could issue a narrow procedural ruling now rather than send the case back, emphasizing the need for a clear record of wrongdoing [3][4].

Administration cites alleged mortgage‑fraud; Cook denies wrongdoing The White House argues Cook falsified mortgage applications for two properties, claiming they were primary residences, to justify removal for cause [1][2][4]. Cook’s lawyers counter that the allegations rely on cherry‑picked snippets, note only one stray reference, and invoke Marbury v. Madison to argue she is entitled to judicial review of any removal [1][3]. The Solicitor General asserted the president should receive deference in determining cause, even for inadvertent mistakes [1].

Powell investigation and historic context heighten tension Simultaneously, the Justice Department opened a criminal probe into Fed Chair Jerome Powell and issued subpoenas, which Powell labeled a pretext for policy frustration [2][4]. Powell was expected to attend the arguments, underscoring the case’s significance for the Fed’s leadership [2][4]. No president has ever fired a sitting Fed governor in the institution’s 112‑year history, making the outcome a potential precedent for future executive‑central‑bank relations [4].

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