In a move that has once again put him at odds with the Federal Reserve, President Donald Trump on Wednesday called for interest rate cuts, arguing that lower rates would complement his administration’s latest round of tariffs.
“Interest Rates should be lowered, something which would go hand in hand with upcoming Tariffs!!!” Trump wrote in an early morning post on Truth Social, adding, “Let’s Rock and Roll, America!!!”
While the president has no direct control over the Federal Reserve, this is not the first time he has publicly pressured the independent central bank. Since returning to the White House in January, Trump has repeatedly pushed for lower interest rates—just as he did during his first term.
Trump’s latest remarks come shortly after Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell stated that there was “no need to be in a hurry” when it comes to cutting rates. The Fed has maintained a cautious stance, keeping a close watch on inflation, which many economists warn could be worsened by Trump’s aggressive trade policies.
On Monday, the administration imposed a 25 percent tariff on all imported steel and aluminum, with Trump also threatening additional tariffs on goods from major U.S. trading partners.
These measures are expected to drive up costs for American businesses and consumers, potentially fueling inflation—one of the key concerns that the Federal Reserve considers when setting interest rates.
Despite the Fed’s independence, Trump’s public calls for rate cuts add to a growing pattern of executive overreach in his second term. Since taking office in January, he has stunned Washington with a series of bold and often unprecedented moves, expanding presidential power while sidelining Congress.
Though Republicans hold a narrow majority, Trump has shown little interest in traditional legislative negotiations, preferring instead to wield executive authority.