Fed Governor Lisa Cook Navigates Political Storm Amid Economic Data Gaps

Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook addressed her ongoing legal battle with former President Donald TRUMP during her first public appearance since the controversy erupted. Cook, who faces removal attempts by Trump, declined to discuss lawsuit specifics but revealed how the tumult has altered her methods for gauging inflation sentiment.

The government shutdown has compounded challenges for the Fed by delaying critical economic indicators. "I used to eavesdrop on diner conversations to understand inflation perceptions," Cook remarked at a Washington event. "Now I rely on other channels." This anecdote underscores the Fed's struggle to maintain its dual mandate without traditional data streams.

Analysts suggest Trump's move against Cook reflects broader political pressures on central bank independence. The situation emerges as cryptocurrency markets watch for potential macroeconomic ripple effects, particularly in Bitcoin and Ethereum, which often react to Fed policy uncertainty.