敏感时刻，鲍威尔发声：大学是至关重要的国家资产

Core Viewpoint - Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell emphasized the importance of American higher education as a "critical national asset" during his speech at Princeton University, urging students to protect democracy amidst increasing tensions with the Trump administration [1][2][4]. Group 1: Importance of Higher Education - Powell defended U.S. higher education, stating that American universities are admired worldwide and play a crucial role in scientific innovation and economic vitality [3]. - He warned graduates not to take these institutions for granted and called for active defense of democratic values [4]. Group 2: Tensions with the Trump Administration - The Trump administration has recently attacked higher education by banning Harvard University from enrolling international students and cutting billions in funding for higher education [5][6]. - This conflict has escalated as Powell, appointed during Trump's first term, faces criticism for not lowering interest rates quickly enough, with Trump labeling him as a "big loser" [8]. Group 3: Independence of the Federal Reserve - Powell intends to serve his full term despite suggestions from Trump's economic team about potentially dismissing him before his term ends [8]. - The Supreme Court has indicated that the White House does not have the authority to interfere with the Federal Reserve's monetary policy independence through the dismissal of its members [8].