- US President Donald Trump has announced the dismissal of Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook, citing unconfirmed allegations of mortgage fraud.
- Trump's decision follows a criminal referral from William Pulte, director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, alleging Cook made false statements on mortgage agreements.
- Pulte's referral claims Cook declared properties in Michigan and Georgia as primary residences within a two-week period in 2021, potentially to secure better loan terms.
- Cook, the first Black woman on the central bank's board, said she would not be "bullied to step down" and intended to gather accurate information to address the allegations.
- The removal is effective immediately and occurs amidst Trump's broader criticism of the Federal Reserve's interest rate policies.
IN FULL
Trump says he is firing Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook after alleging mortgage fraud