Fed Chief Warsh Defends Central Bank Independence

Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh defended the central bank's decision to hold interest rates steady, asserting that political considerations played no part in the outcome. Warsh emphasized that policymakers focused entirely on economic data despite ongoing pressure from the White House.

US Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh holds a press conference, following a two-day meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), at the Federal Reserve in Washington, DC, US, October 28, 2026. REUTERS/Kylie Cooper

Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh said political pressures played no part in the central bank's decision to leave interest rates unchanged in the 3.75%-4.00% range. The stance comes despite repeated public criticism from President Donald Trump that the board is partisan. Warsh defended the central bank's independence as officials weigh fresh economic data for December.