Trump Appeals to Supreme Court to Dismiss Fed Governor Lisa Cook

WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2025 - President Donald Trump asked the U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday to allow him to fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, challenging lower-court rulings that blocked her removal over alleged mortgage-fraud claims.

Aiming to preserve what he calls “cause” for dismissal, the administration urged justices to overturn a District Court’s order barring Cook’s ouster and to stay an appeals panel’s refusal of an emergency removal request before her term expires in 2038.

Nuts and Bolts of the Dispute

The appeal underscores a rare confrontation between the White House and the Fed, a central bank historically insulated from political influence. Trump contends Cook’s mortgage-related allegations satisfy statutory grounds for removal “for cause,” while Cook and federal judges maintain those claims fall outside permissible reasons tied to her official duties.

Key Developments

  • District Judge Jia Cobb blocked Cook’s firing on Sept. 9, ruling pre-appointment actions couldn’t justify removal.
  • A divided D.C. Circuit panel denied Trump’s request for a stay, prompting the White House to turn to the Supreme Court.
  • Cook joined the Fed’s September meeting, supporting a quarter-point rate cut amid a softening labor market.
  • Solicitor General D. John Sauer framed the case as critical to presidential authority, decrying “inappropriate judicial interference.”

Stakes and Implications

If granted, Trump would become the first president to dismiss a Fed governor since the Fed’s 1913 founding, raising pivotal questions about executive reach into monetary policy. Opponents warn the move could erode central-bank independence and unsettle financial markets.

Broader Impact

Beyond Cook’s case, the high court faces a trio of disputes testing limits on presidential removal powers for leaders of independent agencies. The justices must weigh statutory text, separation-of-powers principles and the Fed’s entrenched autonomy.

Next Steps

The Supreme Court could decide whether to intervene within days. Meanwhile, Cook has vowed to remain in her post, and Democrats in Congress are considering legislation to bolster Fed governors’ job security.