A former Republican representative has called for a revolt within the party against Donald Trump’s recent economic maneuvers. Adam Kinzinger, who served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2011 to 2023, urged GOP members to resist the influence of Trump following an inquiry targeting Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. Kinzinger’s comments come in the wake of revelations reported by The New York Times regarding an investigation initiated by Jeanine Pirro, the U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C., last November.
During a video posted on his YouTube channel, Kinzinger expressed concern over Trump’s attempts to undermine the Federal Reserve’s independence. Powell received a subpoena to testify before a grand jury concerning statements he made during a Senate committee hearing in June 2022. In his statement, Powell characterized the subpoena as “ongoing pressure” from Trump to influence the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy.
Kinzinger criticized Trump’s motives, stating, “This was only done for one reason, and one reason only.” According to him, Trump’s desire for Powell to cut interest rates compromises the Federal Reserve’s mandate to stabilize the economy and maintain employment. He explained that reducing interest rates can exacerbate inflation, necessitating a counter-response from the Federal Reserve to rein in excessive money supply.
In his remarks, Kinzinger emphasized the ethical responsibility of elected officials, asserting that they should prioritize their constituents’ interests over Trump’s agenda. He remarked, “As a member of Congress, your job is not to do what Donald Trump wants. Your job is to do what’s right.”
Kinzinger urged Republicans to take a stand against Trump’s pressures, stating that the party must act to preserve its integrity. He called on fellow Republicans to oppose any of Trump’s priorities until there is a significant shift in how the party approaches economic policy. “Every Republican has a chance right now to save any shred of decency or morality they have,” he asserted.
The former representative’s comments highlight a growing divide within the GOP regarding Trump’s influence over economic policy and the broader political landscape. As the party grapples with its identity in the face of Trump’s ongoing presence, Kinzinger’s appeal for rebellion may resonate with those who seek a return to traditional conservative values.
