Senate confirms Stephen Miran to Fed board ahead of crucial rate cut meeting

Core Points - The Senate confirmed Stephen Miran to the Federal Reserve Board of Governors with a narrow vote of 48-47, reflecting a largely party-line decision in the Republican-controlled Senate [1] - Miran is expected to report to the Fed's headquarters as officials begin a two-day meeting to discuss the economic direction [1] - The Federal Open Market Committee is scheduled to meet on September 16 to set U.S. interest rates and broader monetary policy, which will impact borrowing costs across various sectors [2] Group 1 - Miran's confirmation follows President Trump's push for the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates, with Trump advocating for a reduction to 1% to stimulate economic growth [5][7] - Miran has committed to taking unpaid leave from his White House position while serving on the Fed's Board of Governors [6] - The Federal Reserve's current key borrowing rate is maintained within a range of 4.25% to 4.5%, with Fed Chair Jerome Powell adopting a wait-and-see approach due to ongoing trade policy impacts [9] Group 2 - The confirmation of Miran occurs amid legal challenges faced by Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, who is suing Trump to retain her position on the board [12][13] - Cook's removal by Trump was based on allegations of mortgage fraud, which she denies, and a criminal investigation has been launched into her conduct [10][15] - If Trump successfully removes Cook, he will have nominated a majority of the Fed board, thereby increasing his influence over U.S. monetary policy [16]