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特朗普想换掉鲍威尔并不容易?一文详解美联储主席职位稳固性
Hua Er Jie Jian Wen·2025-07-18 08:49

Core Viewpoint - The independence of the Federal Reserve, particularly under Chairman Powell, is under scrutiny due to political pressures, but legal and institutional frameworks provide significant protection against arbitrary dismissal [1][2]. Legal Protections for Powell - According to Morgan Stanley economist Michael Feroli, the Federal Reserve Board members can only be removed for "just cause," historically interpreted as misconduct rather than policy disagreements [2]. - The 1935 Supreme Court case Humphrey's Executor v. United States established that the President cannot dismiss independent regulatory agency heads due to political differences, which has historically protected the Federal Reserve from direct political interference [2]. - The recent Supreme Court ruling in Trump v. Wilcox further solidified the Federal Reserve's unique status, stating it is a "structurally unique quasi-private entity," thus providing additional legal safeguards for its members against arbitrary dismissal [2]. Challenges to Dismissal - Even if President Trump attempts to dismiss Powell citing "just cause," such as cost overruns on the Fed's headquarters renovation, historical precedents make it difficult to define what constitutes "just cause," potentially leading to lengthy legal battles [3]. - If Trump were to proceed with the dismissal, Powell could file a lawsuit to block the action, which might ultimately reach the Supreme Court [3]. - Analysts suggest that the Supreme Court may allow lower court injunctions to remain in effect during the case, potentially allowing Powell to complete his term [3]. Institutional Design Limits Presidential Influence - The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) consists of 12 members, which disperses decision-making power and makes it challenging for any single change in personnel to significantly alter policy direction [3]. - The seven Board members are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate for 14-year terms, while the Chair and Vice Chair serve 4-year terms, renewable. Powell's term as a Board member lasts until January 2028, and as Chair until May 2026 [3][4]. Continuity in Monetary Policy - Even if Powell were to lose his position as Chair, he could remain on the Board until January 2028 and potentially be elected as Chair of the FOMC, maintaining a significant role in monetary policy formulation [5]. - The current term arrangements for Board members limit the President's ability to influence the composition of the Federal Reserve through normal appointments [6]. Risks of Eroding Independence - Economists generally agree that separating monetary policy from political cycles is beneficial, as politically motivated decisions can lead to inappropriate economic stimulation [7]. - Historical evidence suggests that central banks with greater political independence tend to achieve lower and more stable inflation rates [7]. - Any weakening of the Federal Reserve's independence could increase inflation risks, especially given current pressures from tariffs and rising inflation expectations [7].