Judge blocks DOJ subpoenas in probe of Fed Chair Powell

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A federal judge has quashed Justice Department subpoenas issued to the Federal Reserve in January as part of an investigation into Fed Chair Jerome Powell. The judge said the 'mountain of evidence suggests' the purpose of the subpoenas was to pressure the Fed to cut its key interest rate, as President Trump has repeatedly demanded.

Why it matters

The ruling is a major setback for the Justice Department's investigation into Powell, which has already faced strong criticism from lawmakers on Capitol Hill. It raises questions about the political motivations behind the probe and the administration's attempts to influence the independent Federal Reserve.

The details

The subpoenas were issued in January as part of a Justice Department investigation into Powell. However, Judge James Boasberg ruled that the evidence indicates the real purpose was to pressure the Fed to lower interest rates, as President Trump has repeatedly called for. The investigation has already prompted one Republican senator to block consideration of Trump's pick to replace Powell as Fed chair when his term expires in May.

• The subpoenas were issued by the Justice Department in January 2026.
• Judge Boasberg ruled to quash the subpoenas on March 14, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Justice Department has not indicated whether it will appeal the judge's ruling to quash the subpoenas.