DOJ Backs Trump’s Move to Remove Fed Governor Lisa Cook Amid Legal Battle

The U.S. Department of Justice has intervened in the escalating legal dispute over President Trump's dismissal of Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook. Solicitor General D. John Sauer contends the president faces "irreparable harm" from lower court injunctions blocking Cook's removal. The DOJ maintains Trump's authority to act immediately, despite pending litigation.

At issue is whether alleged financial misconduct—specifically mortgage fraud claims tied to Cook's pre-Fed property disclosures—constitutes valid "cause" for removal under the Federal Reserve Act. Sauer's brief argues the Fed's independence wouldn't be compromised, dismissing concerns about market destabilization. Cook's legal team counters that the administration is manufacturing pretexts to undermine central bank autonomy.