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Fact check: Trump RAGES at Fed Chair While TANKING US Economy

Checked on June 21, 2025

1. Summary of the results

The analyses confirm that Trump is indeed expressing strong criticism toward Fed Chair Jerome Powell, with multiple sources documenting his harsh rhetoric. Trump has called Powell "stupid," "political," and "the WORST," while stating he could "do a better job" than the current Fed Chair [1] [2] [3]. Trump has even mused about potentially appointing himself to lead the Federal Reserve [1] [4].

Regarding the economic impact, the evidence presents a mixed but concerning picture. The Federal Reserve has kept interest rates unchanged and put planned rate cuts on hold due to uncertainty about Trump's policies, particularly tariffs [2] [4]. Trump's tariff policies have demonstrably slowed the US economy, raised unemployment and inflation, and clouded the economic horizon [5]. Market indicators show significant stress, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average sinking more than 1,000 points and the yield on a 10-year Treasury note rising to 4.89 percent [6].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original statement lacks crucial context about the Federal Reserve's institutional independence and measured response. Rather than simply reacting to Trump's criticism, the Fed is taking a cautious, data-driven approach, waiting for additional information on how tariffs and other potential disruptions will affect the economy before making policy changes [2].

The analyses reveal that the economic challenges stem primarily from Trump's own policy decisions, particularly his tariff strategy, rather than Fed Chair Powell's actions [5]. The Fed's projections show higher inflation and lower economic growth specifically due to these tariffs [4].

Financial markets and institutional investors benefit from Fed independence and predictable monetary policy, while Trump's political base may benefit from his narrative that blames economic problems on the Fed rather than his own policies [7]. The analyses suggest that Trump's attacks on Powell may actually be exacerbating economic problems rather than solving them [6].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The statement contains inflammatory language ("RAGES," "TANKING") that may exaggerate the situation while potentially misleading readers about causation. While Trump is indeed criticizing Powell harshly, the economic difficulties appear to be primarily caused by Trump's own tariff policies rather than Fed actions [5].

The framing suggests that Trump's anger and economic problems are separate issues, when the analyses indicate that Trump's policies are the primary driver of the economic challenges the Fed is now trying to navigate [7]. The statement also omits the fact that the Fed is maintaining institutional independence and following established economic principles rather than bowing to political pressure [2].

The timing is also significant - the most recent analyses from June 2025 show this is an ongoing situation where Trump's continued attacks on Powell are described as "exacerbating the problem" rather than providing solutions [6].

Want to dive deeper?
How does the Federal Reserve Chair respond to Trump's criticism?
What are the economic consequences of Trump's policies on the US economy in 2025?
Can the President directly influence the Federal Reserve's decisions?
What role does the Fed Chair play in stabilizing the US economy during presidential administrations?
How do Trump's views on the Fed differ from those of previous US presidents?