Hassett surprises: The Fed should also defend itself against Trump's influence

US President Kevin Hassett's advisor, who is among the possible successors to the Fed chairman, emphasized that the US Federal Reserve must remain completely independent—even from the influence of US President Donald Trump.

He was responding to the president's repeated calls for interest rate cuts and his criticism of Jerome Powell. Trump is considering a change in the Fed's leadership, raising fears that the institution's independence could be compromised.

In addition to Hassett, Kevin Warsh and Christopher Waller are also on the list of possible successors. Trump's attempt to dismiss Governor Lisa Cook, who has taken legal action against this, is also causing concern.

Hassett simultaneously supported the Treasury Secretary's proposal for a more comprehensive reform of the Fed, but declined to give details.

(reuters, lup)