Colby Smith

Colby Smith, a New York Times reporter covering the Federal Reserve, teams up with Andrew Duehren, a tax policy writer for The New York Times, to delve into a major domestic policy bill that risks adding over $3 trillion to the U.S. national debt. They discuss how Republicans are altering accounting practices to make this debt 'vanish' and the growing skepticism surrounding America's fiscal responsibility. The conversation highlights the concerning rise of national debt and shifting global confidence in U.S. Treasury bonds amidst mounting financial risks.

Colby Smith, a Federal Reserve and U.S. economy reporter for The Times, dives into the tumultuous relationship between President Trump and Fed Chair Jerome Powell. He discusses the legal uncertainties surrounding Trump's attempt to fire Powell and the ramifications for global economic stability. The conversation also highlights how political tensions, notably during election cycles and crises like the pandemic, complicate monetary policy, inflation, and interest rate decisions. Smith navigates the fine line between economic independence and political influence, revealing the ongoing struggle for balance.

Colby Smith and Glenn Thrush dive into the surprising criminal investigation into Fed Chair Jerome Powell, initiated by the Trump administration. Colby discusses the push for faster rate cuts and the fallout from costly renovations at the Fed, while Glenn explains how political allies influenced the Justice Department's involvement. They unpack Powell's rare public defense of the Fed’s independence and the unexpected Republican backlash. Ultimately, they reveal how this move, aimed at undermining the Fed, may have paradoxically strengthened its institutional power.