Nearly 600 economists back Lisa Cook and Fed independence in open letter

Nearly 600 economists have signed an open letter voicing support for Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, emphasizing the importance of protecting the central bank’s independence from political pressure.

The signatories — including Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz and former Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers Jared Bernstein — warn that attempts to undermine Cook’s position could erode confidence in one of the nation’s most critical economic institutions.

"Recent public statements about Governor Cook—including threats of removal and a claim that she has been fired—have arrived alongside unproven accusations," the group of more than 590 economists wrote on Tuesday.

"This approach threatens the fundamental principle of central bank independence and undermines trust in one of Ameri