Group 1 - Jerome Powell emphasizes that the Federal Reserve's decisions on benchmark interest rates are based on economic data and market conditions, not political factors [1][5] - Wilbur Ross believes that Trump's threats against Powell may actually strengthen the Fed's resolve to resist political interference [2][4] - The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) faces a complex dilemma, as external political factors may subtly influence its decisions despite a desire to rely solely on economic data [2][7] Group 2 - Powell and other Fed members consider the impact of tariffs on the economy as a key factor in their decision-making process, particularly whether these costs will be passed on to American consumers [2][5] - Ross argues that Powell's career prospects are clear, suggesting he has little motivation to align with the White House's stance [4][5] - Powell has consistently denied that political factors influence his decisions, stating that all decisions are based on what is best for the public [5][6] Group 3 - The FOMC previously cut interest rates in December when inflation was at 2.9%, explaining that the cut was to address economic slowdown risks [6] - Powell's cautious approach has been noted since Trump's presidency, contrasting with previous decisions made under higher inflation [5][6] - The independence of the Fed is a deeply rooted tradition, but it does not mean that decisions are entirely free from external influences [7]