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US Justice Department Closes Investigation into Fed Chair Powell

US Justice Department Closes Investigation into Fed Chair Powell

From CNA · (12m ago) English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • The US Justice Department is closing its investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.
  • US Attorney Jeanine Pirro stated the investigation is concluded and has requested the Fed's internal watchdog to examine cost overruns in renovations of the central bank's headquarters.
  • Pirro expressed confidence that the Inspector General's report will help resolve questions that led to subpoenas being issued.

In a significant development for the Federal Reserve and its leadership, the US Justice Department has announced the closure of its investigation into Fed Chair Jerome Powell. This decision, confirmed by US Attorney Jeanine Pirro, removes a potential hurdle for the confirmation of Kevin Warsh, President Trump's nominee to lead the central bank. Pirro, a known ally of the President, stated that instead of continuing the probe into Powell, she has directed the Fed's Office of Inspector General to scrutinize cost overruns related to the renovation of the Fed's Washington headquarters.

Pirro's statement, made via social media, emphasized her expectation of a "comprehensive report in short order" from the Inspector General. She expressed confidence that the findings will provide clarity and definitively address the issues that prompted the issuance of subpoenas. This shift in focus suggests a strategic move to address concerns about financial accountability within the Federal Reserve, channeling investigative efforts towards internal oversight rather than a direct probe of the Fed Chair himself.

The Inspector General has the authority to hold the Fed accountable to American taxpayers.

— Jeanine PirroUS Attorney explaining the rationale for directing the investigation to the Fed's internal watchdog.

While the article does not delve into the specific reasons for the initial investigation or the nature of the subpoenas, the Justice Department's decision to close the inquiry into Powell is a noteworthy event. It signifies a potential end to a period of uncertainty surrounding the Fed Chair's position. The focus now shifts to the Inspector General's review of the headquarters' renovation costs, an area that Pirro believes holds the key to resolving outstanding questions and ensuring taxpayer accountability. This development is being closely watched for its implications on the Federal Reserve's operations and leadership.

I expect a comprehensive report in short order and am confident the outcome will assist in resolving, once and for all, the questions that led this office to issue subpoenas.

— Jeanine PirroUS Attorney expressing expectations for the Inspector General's report.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by CNA in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.