President Donald Trump advised Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh to align his vote with the central bank's board because any dissent "is not going to matter." Speaking in North Carolina on Wednesday, Trump characterized the Fed board as "very hostile" and "very political," claiming that current interest rates are too high and inappropriate. He expressed confidence in Warsh but argued the chairman is constrained by a board appointed by others who are doing the wrong thing.

The comments follow a 25 basis point hike that moved interest rates to a range of 3.75% to 4%, marking the first such increase since 2023. While the White House described the move as "rather unfortunate," Trump suggested he previously discussed the planned vote with Warsh before the board's unanimous 12-0 decision. At least 16 of 18 policymakers anticipate another hike this year, while Trump has demanded rates be cut to 1% or lower.