美国司法部对美联储主席开启“刑事调查”，鲍威尔“这是美联储不听话的结果”

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. Department of Justice is conducting a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, focusing on the renovation project of the Federal Reserve headquarters and whether Powell misled Congress regarding the project [1][2][3] Group 1: Investigation Details - The investigation was initiated by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia and approved by Jeanine Pirro in November 2022, examining Powell's public statements and expenditure records related to the $2.5 billion renovation project [1][3] - Powell has denied that the investigation is a result of his testimony or the renovation project, asserting that the threat of criminal charges is a consequence of the Federal Reserve's commitment to setting interest rates based on public interest rather than presidential preferences [2][3] Group 2: Political Context - The investigation highlights the ongoing conflict between Trump and the Federal Reserve, with Trump pressuring Powell to significantly lower interest rates and threatening legal action over the renovation project [3][4] - Trump has indicated he has selected a successor for Powell, with the announcement expected soon, as Powell's term as chairman ends in May 2024, although he will remain a board member until January 2028 [2][6] Group 3: Renovation Project - The renovation project, which began in 2022 and is expected to be completed by 2027, involves the expansion and modernization of the Marriner S. Eccles building and another structure, with a budget overrun of approximately $700 million [5] - Powell testified in June 2022 that there were no plans for luxury amenities such as a private elevator or restaurant, emphasizing that the project has evolved and some initial features have been removed [5]