Judge blocks justice department from subpoenaing Fed chair Jerome Powell

Group 1 - A federal judge has blocked the justice department from serving subpoenas to Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell, indicating that the investigation is perceived as a threat to the Fed's independence and an attempt to pressure Powell to lower interest rates [1][2] - The judge noted that there is a "mountain of evidence" suggesting the investigation is pretextual, with the government providing essentially no evidence of wrongdoing by Powell [2] - Republican Senator Tom Tillis expressed that the Trump administration's appeal regarding Powell's case will delay the confirmation of Kevin Warsh as the next Fed chair, highlighting opposition among some Republicans to the investigation [3] Group 2 - Donald Trump has increasingly criticized Powell, whom he appointed in 2018, labeling him as "stupid" and "too slow" for not reducing interest rates [4] - Trump previously accused Powell of "fraud" related to budget overruns on renovations at the Fed headquarters, which Powell has denied, calling the investigation a means to pressure the Fed [5] - While Warsh may align with Trump's agenda for lower interest rates, Powell's term ends in May, and it remains uncertain if he will continue on the Federal Open Market Committee [6] Group 3 - The Supreme Court is set to rule on a case involving Fed governor Lisa Cook, who was allegedly targeted by Trump after he attempted to fire her, raising concerns about presidential power over the Fed [7] - Cook has denied allegations of mortgage fraud, with her legal team pointing out similar discrepancies by other officials, and a ruling on her case is expected by June [8]