In remarks delivered after stepping down as Federal Reserve chair earlier this month, Jerome Powell warns that efforts to politicize the Federal Reserve would erode the institution’s credibility. Both outlets report that Powell frames the Fed’s independence as essential to maintaining public trust and market confidence. He describes the Fed’s independence as a “priceless asset” that should be defended rather than “meddled” with, according to the accounts. One report also characterizes Powell’s comments as a response to President Trump, saying democratic institutions can be “torn down quickly,” while another focuses more directly on the broader risk of politicization undermining the Fed’s standing. Together, the sources present Powell’s message as a warning that political interference—whether direct or indirect—can quickly weaken the credibility of central bank policy decisions. The reporting also emphasizes that the remarks occur in what is described as one of Powell’s first major speeches since leaving the role.