Public Reacts as Trump and Fed Chair Clash Over Budget in Tense Live TV Exchange
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President Donald Trump and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell had a tense exchange on live TV Thursday during a tour of a renovation project.
Live Budget Debate Between Trump and Fed Chair Feels Like a Comedy Skit
Trump said the project cost $3.1 billion more than the Fed’s reported $2.5 billion. Powell, standing next to him, shook his head and said, “I haven’t heard that from anybody at the Fed.”
Trump then pulled a document from his pocket and handed it to Powell. Powell looked confused at first, then realized it referred to a different building that had been renovated five years ago.
Trump asked, “Do you expect any more cost overruns?” Powell responded, “Don’t expect them.”
Trump, known for his real estate background, said he would have fired someone for going over budget. He joked that he might go easier on Powell if he cuts interest rates.
The awkward moment quickly went viral online. Many compared it to a scene from the TV show The Office.
Trump Criticizes Powell But Says He Won’t Fire Him yet
“This could literally pass as a scene straight from The Office,” one person posted on social media. Others called it “incredible” and “hilarious.”
One user wrote: “It’s so rare to see someone tell him he’s wrong.” Another added: “Donald Trump makes Michael Scott look like a genius.”
Trump has publicly criticized Powell before. He recently called him a “numbskull” on Truth Social but said he doesn’t plan to fire him.
When asked on Thursday if Powell’s job was in danger, Trump said: “To do that is a big move and I just don’t think it’s necessary. I believe he’s going to do the right thing.”
The Fed is currently holding interest rates between 4.25% and 4.5%. Trump reportedly wants them cut to just 1%.
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