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Central BanksMediumUpdated•Originally published 29 April 2026•Updated 29 April 2026•
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Powell to Stay on Fed Board After Chairmanship Ends to Protect Institutional Independence

Key Facts

1Jerome Powell announced his intention to remain as a member of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors after his term as chair ends on May 15.
2Powell justified his decision by citing legal threats against the institution, warning that the central bank's independence is at risk.
3Powell can legally remain in his position as a governor until January 2028.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell confirmed his intention to remain on the Board of Governors after his chairmanship ends on May 15, following the central bank's decision to hold interest rates steady in his final meeting. Powell justified the move as a strategic effort to shield the Fed's independence from legal threats and external political pressures. During his final press conference, he addressed persistent inflation risks and the economic fallout stemming from the US-Israel-Iran conflict. Legally, Powell can serve as a governor until January 2028, ensuring institutional continuity during a sensitive transition period. His presence alongside successor Kevin Warsh is expected to create a unique power dynamic within the FOMC. Market participants are closely monitoring how this continuity and geopolitical tensions will influence future monetary policy decisions.