Trump-Appointed Senator Attacks Federal Reserve Chairman Powell, Comparing Him to Fauci

Ohio Republican Senator Bernie Moreno has launched a scathing attack on U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, labeling him the "Fauci of the financial system" and questioning his competence. The ferocious criticism comes as President Donald Trump has repeatedly rebuked Powell over the central bank's refusal to cut interest rates. In a heated exchange, Moreno accused Powell of lying to Congress, making one million dollars in bonuses, and advising policymakers to forgive student debt. The senator called for Powell's resignation, saying it would be "better for the country" and "the Federal Reserve."

Key Takeaways:

  • Senator Bernie Moreno compared Jerome Powell to Dr. Anthony Fauci, calling him the "Fauci of the financial system."
  • Moreno accused Powell of lying to Congress about the Federal Reserve building's renovations.
  • The senator questioned Powell's competence, citing his role in managing the U.S. economy and the central bank's losses.
  • Moreno also questioned Powell's advice on forgiving student debt, calling it "insanity."
  • The senator suggested Trump made a "bad hire" in nominating Powell and implied he is refusing to leave office due to "arrogance and ego."
  • Moreno argued that Trump has the right to fire Powell, citing the Supreme Court case Humphrey's on inefficiency.

Statistics:

  • Senator Bernie Moreno employed 1,100 people in his life, acknowledging that he made some bad hires.
  • The Federal Reserve building's renovation cost is estimated at $2.7 billion, according to Powell's testimony.
  • Powell has made millions in bonuses, according to Moreno.
  • The U.S. economy has lost hundreds of billions of dollars under Powell's management, according to the senator.

Sources:

  • "The Source/CNN" article, July 24, 2025
  • Kaitlan Collins' interview with Bernie Moreno on CNN's The Source
  • Power Point presentation of the Federal Reserve building's renovation costs, July 2025
  • Humphrey's Supreme Court case, 1964
  • The Source/CNN's image of the Federal Reserve renovation meeting between Trump, Powell, and Senator Tim Scott