Story perspectives
Fed Independence Crucial Amid Political Pressure, Says Hassett
9/7/2025
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Story summary
- Kevin Hassett stressed the importance of the Federal Reserve's independence from political influence, including from President Trump.
- He is a candidate to replace Jerome Powell as Fed chair when his term ends in May 2026.
- Hassett highlighted that politically controlled central banks often lead to inflation and consumer hardship.
- He supported Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's call for reviewing the Fed's operations.
- A CBS News poll showed 68% of Americans favor Fed independence, while 59% of Republicans prefer presidential guidance.
- U.S. job growth in August was 22,000, falling short of expectations and complicating Fed rate decisions.
