A call for rebellion within the Republican Party has emerged from former representative Adam Kinzinger, who criticized the party’s acquiescence to former President Donald Trump regarding economic decisions. Kinzinger specifically targeted the recent investigation launched by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro into Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, urging party members to resist Trump’s influence over the Federal Reserve.
According to a report by The New York Times, the inquiry into Powell began in November 2022, following a subpoena for Powell to testify before a grand jury concerning statements he made during a Senate committee hearing the previous June. Powell characterized the subpoena as an example of “ongoing pressure” from Trump aimed at undermining the independence of the Federal Reserve.
In a video posted to his YouTube channel, Kinzinger, who served as a U.S. House representative from Illinois from 2011 to 2023, emphasized the importance of maintaining the Federal Reserve’s autonomy. He stated, “This was only done for one reason, and one reason only. Donald Trump has been wanting Jerome Powell to cut interest rates, and Jerome Powell and the Federal Reserve board’s job is not to do what Donald Trump wants.”
Kinzinger explained the critical role of the Federal Reserve in managing the economy. He noted that lowering interest rates could exacerbate inflation, stating, “When you cut interest rates, more money goes out into the economy, and if you have an inflation problem, inflation increases.” He stressed that the Federal Reserve must raise interest rates to control inflation when necessary.
Kinzinger criticized Trump’s legal actions against the Federal Reserve, asserting that such moves reflect the former president’s refusal to accept its decisions. He described the situation as “utterly insane” and “utterly unethical,” calling on Republican representatives to stand firm against Trump’s demands.
“This is the moment that the elected Republicans have to make a decision,” Kinzinger said. He urged his colleagues to prioritize their constitutional responsibilities over loyalty to Trump. “Your job is not to do what Donald Trump wants. Your job is to do what’s right. Your job is to represent your district.”
Kinzinger expressed disappointment that many Republican lawmakers have consistently “bowed and acquiesced” to Trump’s wishes. He believes that this presents an opportunity for party members to reclaim their integrity. He encouraged them to oppose Trump’s priorities until there is a retraction of the investigation into Powell.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Kinzinger’s remarks highlight a growing tension within the Republican Party regarding its relationship with Trump and the implications of his influence on economic governance. The coming weeks may reveal whether Kinzinger’s call for action resonates with his fellow party members.
