Topic: Jerome Powell

3 chapters across the catalog

Pascal's Wager
Episode 18 • • 41:18 - 44:50

18: Pascal's Wager

History of the Federal Reserve and Andrew Jackson

The hosts provide a historical overview of the Federal Reserve, explaining its origins on Jekyll Island in 1913 and its status as a private banking entity rather than a government agency. They compare the current situation to Andrew Jackson’s battle against the First and Second Banks of the United States. They explain how Jackson successfully dissolved the central bank of his era by decentralizing funds to smaller banks.

Pascal's Wager
Episode 18 • • 44:50 - 48:20

18: Pascal's Wager

Federal Reserve Renovation Scandal and Jerome Powell Investigation

The Federal Reserve is under scrutiny for a $1.9 billion renovation project of its "Marble Palace" headquarters, which reportedly incurred a $700 million budget overrun. A grand jury is investigating Chairman Jerome Powell for potential perjury regarding his testimony before the Senate Banking Committee. President Trump is using these allegations and the legality of tariffs to challenge the independence of the central bank.

Pascal's Wager
Episode 18 • • 48:21 - 51:06

18: Pascal's Wager

Jerome Powell Hostage Video and Political Pressure Claims

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell released a video statement addressing Department of Justice subpoenas and the threat of a criminal indictment. Powell claims the legal actions are a "pretext" for political pressure from the Trump administration to influence interest rate decisions. He asserts that the Fed must remain independent to ensure price stability and maximum employment without political favor.