Fed Holds Rates as Political Storm Intensifies; Trump to Name New Chair Imminently

WikiFX

| 2026-01-29 16:00

Abstract：The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady at 3.50%-3.75% amidst intense political pressure from the White House, with a fractured 10-2 vote highlighting internal divisions. President Trump is expected to announce a new Fed Chair nominee within the week, following Governor Christopher Waller's controversial dissent.

In a decision overshadowed by escalating tensions between the White House and the central bank, the Federal Reserve voted to maintain the federal funds rate target range at 3.50% to 3.75%. While aligning with market consensus, the meeting was marked by a rare 10-2 split vote and speculation regarding Chair Powell's tenure.

Target Rate: Maintained at 3.50% - 3.75%
Vote Split: 10 to 2 (Dissenters favored 25bps cut)
Waller Nomination Odds: Jumped from 8% to 14%

Independence Under Siege

The FOMC removed language regarding rising employment downside risks, describing U.S. growth as solid. Amidst this, President Trump confirmed a replacement for Powell will be announced shortly. The shortlist includes Kevin Warsh, Christopher Waller, and Rick Rieder.

The “Political” Dissent

Governors Christopher Waller and Stephen Milan dissented, voting for a 25-basis point cut. Analysts interpret Waller's move as an appeal to the administration, causing his Chairmanship odds to surge in prediction markets.

Policy Path Forward

The removal of text stating inflation has “eased” suggests the Fed is cautious. While resilient labor and consumption data support the pause, the medium-term policy is clouded by the looming leadership changes at the central bank.