Core Viewpoint - The criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia has raised significant concerns about the independence of the Federal Reserve and the stability of the U.S. financial system, as it appears to be politically motivated amid ongoing tensions between the White House and the Fed [1][4][10]. Investigation Background - The investigation, approved in November 2025, focuses on Powell's public statements and the spending records related to the Fed's Washington headquarters renovation project, which has been criticized as extravagant by the Trump administration [3][4]. - The lead investigator, Janine Pirro, is a known ally of Trump, adding a political dimension to the inquiry, which has been perceived as an attempt to undermine Powell's position due to his monetary policy decisions [3][4]. Core Conflict - Since Trump's second term began in 2025, there has been a public divergence in monetary policy, with Trump advocating for aggressive interest rate cuts to stimulate the economy, while the Fed, concerned about inflation, has been more cautious [6][7]. - Trump's dissatisfaction with Powell has escalated, leading to public criticisms and threats to replace him after his term ends in May 2026, with the investigation seen as a means to pressure Powell into compliance [6][7]. Political Reactions - The investigation has sparked bipartisan outrage, with both Republican and Democratic lawmakers expressing concerns over the potential erosion of the Fed's independence and the integrity of the Justice Department [9][10]. - Economic analysts warn that undermining the Fed's independence could lead to a loss of trust in the U.S. dollar and the financial system, potentially triggering global market repercussions [10]. Ongoing Power Struggle - The investigation has evolved beyond the renovation project, representing a broader struggle over the Fed's autonomy and its ability to set monetary policy free from political influence [12]. - The outcome of this investigation and the responses from both Powell and the Trump administration will significantly impact the economic and financial landscape in the U.S. and globally [12].
美联储风暴:鲍威尔遭刑事调查,一场指向央行独立性的政治围剿?
Sou Hu Cai Jing·2026-01-12 05:46