TL/DR –
Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook’s lawyers have accused a White House committee of being “demonstrably biased” in its investigation into allegations against her. The committee was formed to investigate claims by President Trump that Cook committed mortgage fraud before her appointment; a claim she denies and no criminal charges have been filed. Cook’s lawyers also raised concerns over the objectivity of the committee members, all of whom are Trump appointees.
Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook’s Legal Team Calls White House Panel Bias
WASHINGTON — Lawyers for Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook have labeled the committee formed by the White House to probe allegations against her as “demonstrably biased.” However, they did not outright dismiss the possibility of her appearing before the panel.
The corresponded letter confirmed that Cook, represented by attorney Abbe Lowell, could not attend the scheduled hearing on Nov. 5 due to her pressing official duties at monetary policy meetings in Europe. Lowell indicated that Cook might be available after the Fed’s policy meeting on Dec. 8-9.
The Trump administration has been making consistent efforts to dismiss Cook, a member of the Fed’s board of governors, accusing her of mortgage fraud before her appointment. The claims, which Cook vehemently denies, yet to lead to any criminal charges.
The tradition of the Fed’s independence from political influence has been respected by previous administrations. However, Trump’s repeated calls for the central bank to lower its key interest rate have raised concerns about this independence.
Cook, appointed by former President Joe Biden, is the first Black woman to serve on the Fed’s board. Trump’s initial attempt to dismiss her in August 2025 was rebuffed by the Supreme Court, allowing her to retain her position while litigation continued.
A memo last week from the White House stated that the committee of inquiry would recommend whether Cook can be dismissed “for cause,” a stipulation that was not addressed by the Supreme Court. However, Lowell expressed significant concerns over the objectivity and fitness of the committee.
The committee comprises three members, all Trump appointees, one of whom, Kevin Hassett, has already stated that the president has “cause” to fire Cook. Lowell’s letter called out the biased nature of the committee, citing unspecified allegations and unclear evidence disclosure schedules.
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