特朗普挑战百年美联储：“打不还手”的鲍威尔反击，三位前主席四位前财长发声谴责

Core Viewpoint - The investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice into Federal Reserve Chairman Powell has sparked significant political turmoil, revealing conflicts within the Trump administration and raising concerns about the independence of the Federal Reserve [1][4][10]. Group 1: Investigation and Political Reactions - U.S. Treasury Secretary Mnuchin expressed alarm over the DOJ's investigation into Powell, warning that it is causing market panic [1]. - Former Federal Reserve chairs and past Treasury secretaries from both parties condemned the DOJ's actions, viewing them as an unprecedented attempt to undermine the Fed's independence [8][10]. - Powell publicly accused the Trump administration of using criminal investigations as a means to pressure the Fed into lowering interest rates, which he argues threatens the institution's independence [2][4]. Group 2: Market Impact - Following the news of the investigation, gold prices surged to historic highs due to fears of monetary collapse, while major stock indices initially dropped before recovering [4]. - The Dow Jones and S&P 500 both closed at record highs after investors shifted focus to strong performances from Walmart and certain tech stocks [4]. Group 3: Internal Conflicts and Future Implications - The investigation is seen as a potential strategy by the Trump administration to force Powell out before his term ends, but it may have the opposite effect, solidifying his position [5][8]. - Key Republican figures in the Senate have indicated they will oppose any Trump-nominated successor to Powell until the legal issues surrounding him are resolved, complicating the administration's plans [8]. - The ongoing conflict has raised deep concerns within the financial community about the implications for inflation and overall economic stability [10].