Jerome Powell uses JFK award speech to warn against political pressure on Fed, courts and schools

BOSTON (AP) — Former Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell used one of his first major public appearances since leaving office to deliver a broad defense of independent institutions while accepting the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award in Boston. Powell, who frequently clashed with President Donald Trump during his eight years leading the central bank, warned against political interference in monetary policy and described the Federal Reserve’s independence as a “priceless asset.” He also defended universities, courts and Congress as pillars of democracy. The award also honored residents of Minnesota’s Twin Cities for their actions during a federal immigration crackdown that led to thousands of arrests and two deaths.