Trump Downplays Talks with Warsh Amid Fed Independence Concerns

US President Donald Trump downplayed his conversations with Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh, amid concerns over potential interference in central bank operations.

Trump stated that he had spoken to Warsh only once 'briefly' since May, when the latter was confirmed as Fed leader. However, previous reports suggested that the pair have discussed the economy multiple times.

National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett corroborated this, stating that Trump and Warsh discuss the economy 'all the time.'

In response to questions about his influence on the Fed, Trump emphasized that decisions around interest rates are ultimately made by the institution's board, not just Warsh.