President Donald Trump is intensifying pressure on Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, with White House officials confirming they are exploring legal options regarding his removal. Speaking to reporters on Friday, National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett stated, “The president and his team will continue to study that matter,” referring to whether Powell can be ousted from his post.

The remarks came just a day after Trump escalated his criticism of Powell, accusing the Fed chair of undermining economic growth. Powell had previously warned that Trump’s tariffs could result in higher prices and slowed economic expansion, forcing the Federal Reserve into a challenging position between managing inflation and supporting employment.

Although Trump cannot directly fire Powell, reports indicate that he has privately discussed removing him for months, potentially through a legal process that would require evidence of misconduct. The growing tension underscores the administration’s frustration with the Fed’s direction amid trade policy uncertainties.

At the same time, the White House is advancing Trump’s key domestic initiative—a sweeping tax reform bill. Hassett revealed that the administration hopes to finalize the tax agenda within the coming week, targeting early summer for passage. “The hope is that the tax bill will be passed by the summer, early summer,” Hassett said, noting rapid progress.

The timeline coincides with House Speaker Mike Johnson’s efforts to push through the broader Republican policy agenda by Memorial Day. The tax proposal is being shaped by the “Big Six,” a core group that includes congressional Republican leaders and senior White House officials, including Trump’s economic and Treasury advisors.

This dual-track strategy highlights the administration’s commitment to maintaining economic momentum while asserting greater influence over monetary policy decisions. As both efforts gain speed, Trump’s political and economic agenda continues to dominate Washington’s landscape heading into the summer.