涉及房贷欺诈？美司法部对美联储理事库克展开刑事调查

Core Points - The U.S. Department of Justice is conducting a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook regarding potential false information submitted in mortgage applications [1][3] - The investigation focuses on properties in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Atlanta, Georgia, with grand jury subpoenas issued in both states [1] - Cook was appointed by President Biden in May 2022 and is the first Black woman to serve as a Federal Reserve Governor, with her term set to last until 2038 [1] - Cook has resisted pressure to lower interest rates from former President Trump, indicating a stance of caution [1] - Trump's recent actions, including the announcement of Cook's dismissal, have raised concerns about the politicization of the Federal Reserve [1][4] Investigation Details - Allegations against Cook include submitting false bank documents and property records to obtain more favorable loan conditions [3] - Trump's claims suggest Cook's actions may constitute fraud and disqualify her from serving on the Federal Reserve Board [3] - Cook's legal representative argues that any discrepancies in mortgage documentation could be attributed to "unintentional clerical errors" rather than intentional deceit [3] Legal and Institutional Context - The Federal Reserve Act of 1913 stipulates that a governor can only be dismissed for "just cause," which typically involves misconduct in office [3] - Legal experts suggest that Trump's attempt to dismiss Cook does not meet procedural requirements, as the allegations pertain to her private life prior to her appointment [3] - This situation marks the first instance in over a century where a president has attempted to dismiss a Federal Reserve governor, highlighting a significant escalation in tensions between Trump and the Federal Reserve [4] Implications for Federal Reserve Independence - The ongoing conflict is perceived as an erosion of the Federal Reserve's independence, with implications for monetary policy decision-making [4] - A candidate nominated by Trump, who is set to face Senate confirmation, has pledged to uphold the independence of the Federal Reserve during his hearings [4]