Story perspectives

Judge Quashes Subpoenas Against Fed Chair Powell, Appeals Loom

3/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. District Judge James Boasberg quashed the Justice Department subpoenas against Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, ruling they were politically motivated to pressure him to lower rates.
Boasberg found no evidence of Powell's wrongdoing and said the subpoenas had an improper purpose.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro plans to appeal, arguing the ruling undermines the grand jury's authority.
The case complicates President Donald Trump's effort to replace Powell with Kevin Warsh.

1 of 1

Story summary

U.S. District Judge James Boasberg quashed the Justice Department subpoenas against Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, ruling they were politically motivated to pressure him to lower rates.
Boasberg found no evidence of Powell's wrongdoing and said the subpoenas had an improper purpose.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro plans to appeal, arguing the ruling undermines the grand jury's authority.
The case complicates President Donald Trump's effort to replace Powell with Kevin Warsh.