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Powell Probe Just a 'Flex,' Say Senator Tillis

By Bloomberg Markets and Finance February 13, 2026 Neutral
Powell Probe Just a 'Flex,' Say Senator Tillis
Republican Senator Thom Tillis is sticking to his guns and says he won't approve any nominee to lead the Federal Reserve until a Justice Department probe into the Fed's renovations is over. “We could have a hearing all we want but until the investigation is done, I still believe that the initial inquiry and the investigation was a flex to try and get the current chair to step aside,” Tillis said on Bloomberg Surveillance.

AI Analysis

The political gridlock surrounding Federal Reserve leadership could introduce unexpected volatility in monetary policy, potentially impacting precious metals market dynamics and investor sentiment.

Republican Senator Thom Tillis has delivered a provocative stance on the Federal Reserve leadership, signaling a potential roadblock in Jerome Powell's future by suggesting the ongoing Justice Department investigation is merely a political maneuver. In an exclusive interview on Bloomberg Surveillance, Tillis made it clear that no Fed chair nominee will advance until the current probe into the agency's renovation practices is fully resolved.

Senator Thom Tillis speaking about Federal Reserve investigation - Silver Intel

The Senator's comments underscore a deepening political tension surrounding the Federal Reserve's leadership and governance. By characterizing the investigation as a strategic 'flex' aimed at potentially displacing Powell, Tillis is challenging the motivations behind the ongoing scrutiny of financial institutions.

For precious metals investors, this political standoff introduces significant uncertainty into the monetary policy landscape. Tillis's blockade effectively freezes potential leadership transitions at the Fed, which could have ripple effects on broader economic policy and investment strategies.

The investigation centers on the Federal Reserve's renovation expenditures, though specific details remain limited. Tillis's stance suggests he views the probe as potentially politically motivated rather than a substantive governance concern.

Market participants should closely monitor these developments, as potential leadership instability at the Federal Reserve could introduce volatility into precious metals markets, particularly silver and gold, which are sensitive to monetary policy shifts.

Key Takeaways

Topics: Federal ReserveJerome PowellSenator TillisDOJ investigationmonetary policy