House Democratic Leader Jeffries Condemns Trump’s Attempted Dismissal of Fed Governor Lisa Cook

WASHINGTON, Aug. 27, 2025 - House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) today delivered a forceful rebuke of President Donald Trump’s announced effort to remove Federal Reserve Governor Dr. Lisa Cook, calling the action “unwarranted” and “a brazen power grab.”

In a statement released Monday evening, Jeffries underscored Cook’s historic role as the first Black woman ever to serve on the Fed’s Board of Governors and denounced the White House’s allegations of mortgage fraud as lacking credible evidence. “To the extent anyone is unfit to serve in a position of responsibility because of deceitful and potentially criminal conduct, it is the current occupant of the White House,” he declared.

Jeffries warned that Trump’s bid to oust Cook threatens the Fed’s independence and could inflict lasting damage on public confidence in the central bank. “This is not about accountability-it is about consolidating partisan control over an institution that must remain free from political interference,” he said.

The minority leader’s comments come as the Justice Department reviews allegations against Cook, which she has dismissed as unfounded. Legal experts contend the president likely lacks the clear authority to remove a sitting governor of the Federal Reserve without cause.

Jeffries concluded by urging the courts to block any attempt to force Cook out, emphasizing that safeguarding the Fed’s autonomy is crucial to maintaining economic stability and protecting the interests of everyday Americans.

• Associated Press contributed to this report.