Jerome Powell, in his first public remarks since concluding his eight-year leadership of the U.S. Federal Reserve, warned against the dangers of a politicized central bank. Speaking at the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award ceremony, Powell stressed the importance of protecting democratic institutions, including the Fed, courts, and universities, which are vital to the nation's stability. He noted that while these institutions take significant effort to build, they can be rapidly undermined. Powell reflected on the challenges faced by the Fed, including attempts by former President Donald Trump to influence its operations, which he believes threaten its independence. He asserted that the Fed's structure is designed to ensure that monetary policy decisions remain free from political interference, which is crucial for maintaining public trust. The award he received recognized his commitment to safeguarding the Fed's apolitical nature amidst significant pressures, and he also acknowledged the citizens of Minneapolis and St. Paul for their activism regarding immigration enforcement.