January 30, 2026
GOP senator vows to block Trump's Fed chair pick unless Powell probe is dropped
Sen. Thom Tillis said he will block Trump's Federal Reserve nominee until the DOJ ends its criminal probe of Jerome Powell over a building renovation controversy.
TL;DR
- Senator Thom Tillis will oppose the confirmation of Kevin Warsh and any future Federal Reserve nominees.
- Tillis's opposition is conditional on the resolution of the DOJ's investigation into Fed Chair Jerome Powell.
- The DOJ is investigating Powell regarding the Fed headquarters renovation and his testimony before the Senate.
- Some lawmakers view the probe as Trump's attempt to pressure Powell into lowering interest rates.
- Tillis and other lawmakers, like Rep. Brad Sherman, believe the probe is politically motivated and threatens the Fed's independence.
- Tillis stated his position has not changed and protecting the Fed's independence is non-negotiable.
Continue reading the original article