National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett says Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh is not asking the White House for guidance on monetary policy, including interest-rate decisions. Hassett made the remarks in response to concerns that Warsh could consult President Trump or the administration when setting rates. Speaking on CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Hassett said he and Warsh are long-time friends and that they do talk, but he emphasized that Warsh is not soliciting advice from the White House. Hassett’s comments are aimed at reassuring that the Fed remains independent as it carries out its mandate. The reports describe Hassett as pushing back against the idea of White House influence over Fed policy, while acknowledging personal familiarity and regular communication between the two men. Overall, both accounts focus on Hassett’s denial that Warsh seeks White House input on interest rates and his characterization of their relationship as separate from formal guidance on monetary decisions.