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Judge Blocks DOJ Subpoenas, Sparks Political Turmoil Over Fed

3/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. District Judge James Boasberg blocked Justice Department subpoenas against Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, ruling they were politically motivated and intended to pressure him to lower rates or resign.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro criticized the ruling and said she will appeal, calling Boasberg an "activist judge".
Powell's term expires in May, and Republican Senator Thom Tillis vowed to block any Fed nominee until the case is resolved.

History

Historical Context

The 1974 Supreme Court ruling in U.S. v. Nixon established that no one, including the President, is above the law, directly leading to Richard Nixon's resignation amid the Watergate scandal. This case underscored the balance between political power and judicial authority, a theme echoed in recent judicial decisions regarding governmental influence over institutions like the Federal Reserve, particularly under Jerome Powell's leadership.

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Story summary

U.S. District Judge James Boasberg blocked Justice Department subpoenas against Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, ruling they were politically motivated and intended to pressure him to lower rates or resign.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro criticized the ruling and said she will appeal, calling Boasberg an "activist judge".
Powell's term expires in May, and Republican Senator Thom Tillis vowed to block any Fed nominee until the case is resolved.

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