House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries sparked backlash after referencing Lisa Cook’s race while condemning her removal by President Trump. In a strongly worded statement, Jeffries stressed that Cook was the first Black woman ever to serve on the Federal Reserve Board and lambasted the firing as politically motivated and unfounded.Critics, however, took issue with Jeffries’ mention of her race. On social media, some questioned its relevance, arguing the debate should focus solely on the integrity of the allegations against Cook—namely, accusations of mortgage misrepresentation—rather than identity.Cook, who has denied any wrongdoing and labeled her removal illegal, plans to challenge the decision in court. She maintains her status as a Fed governor remains valid and that Trump lacks the authority to remove her.
