Attorneys representing Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook have sharply criticized the investigative panel established by President Trump, labeling it “demonstrably biased” and questioning the fairness of the proceedings. In a letter dated Tuesday, lawyer Abbe Lowell argued that the committee's composition and procedures undermine the integrity of the inquiry.
“A hearing with demonstrably biased members, unspecified additional allegations, and an unclear schedule for the disclosure of any additional evidence – with no explanation for why it was not previously produced – is not a process that respects the appearance or history of independence,” Lowell wrote, according to the Associated Press. The letter was addressed to Trump’s counsel, William Scharf.
Lowell further expressed “significant concerns regarding the objectivity and fitness of the committee for its assigned purposes,” and indicated that Cook would not be able to appear before the panel until after the Federal Reserve’s policy meeting in December. The hearing was initially scheduled for November 5, but its status remains uncertain.
The dispute stems from Trump’s allegations that Cook “made false statements in connection with one or more mortgage instruments.” In a White House memo, Trump established a three-member “committee of inquiry” to investigate the claims, asserting that “as President, it is my job to ensure the laws are faithfully executed, including by firing subordinates who cannot be trusted to tell the truth and follow the law.”
Cook, who was appointed by former President Biden, has been the target of repeated removal attempts by the Trump administration. Earlier this year, the Supreme Court ruled in a 5-4 decision that Cook could remain on the Fed’s board, with Chief Justice John Roberts writing that the president had not provided sufficient process for her to contest the allegations.
The latest development adds another layer to the ongoing clash between the White House and the Federal Reserve. In August, Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte issued a referral suggesting Cook had illegally designated properties in Georgia and Michigan as her primary residences to secure lower mortgage rates.
This confrontation comes amid broader tensions over the Fed’s independence and its role in setting monetary policy. The administration’s aggressive stance toward Fed officials has drawn criticism from those who view it as an infringement on the central bank’s autonomy. Meanwhile, Trump has continued to push his agenda on multiple fronts, including calls for severe measures against leakers and campaigning for allies in key races.
Legal experts note that the outcome of this inquiry could set a precedent for how presidents may attempt to remove independent agency officials. The Supreme Court’s earlier ruling emphasized the need for due process, and Cook’s legal team is clearly leveraging that standard in their defense.
As the December Fed meeting approaches, the timeline for any hearing remains fluid. The White House has not yet responded to the letter, and it is unclear whether the committee will adjust its schedule to accommodate Cook’s availability. The situation is likely to escalate, with implications for both the Federal Reserve’s independence and the broader political landscape.
