During his confirmation hearing before the Senate Banking Committee, Kevin Warsh, the nominee to lead the US Federal Reserve, asserted that he would uphold the independence of the central bank and not act as a 'sock puppet' for President Donald Trump. This statement was made in response to concerns raised by Democratic Senator John Kennedy, referencing earlier comments from Senator Elizabeth Warren. Warsh humorously responded to Kennedy's questioning about being a 'sock puppet,' stating, 'Absolutely not.' He emphasized the need for independent monetary policy and his commitment to addressing inflation. Warsh is poised to succeed Jerome Powell, whose term ends on May 15, amid Trump's criticism of the Fed's interest rate strategies. The hearing is taking place against a backdrop of political tension, with all 11 Democratic members of the Banking Committee calling for a delay in Warsh's confirmation until investigations into Powell and Fed governor Lisa Cook are concluded. Additionally, Republican Senator Thom Tillis has indicated he will block all Fed nominations until the Justice Department's probe involving Powell is resolved.