Federal Reserve officials remain focused on inflation dynamics amid the economic effects of President Donald Trump’s tariffs. Data indicate a modest pickup in core inflation driven by rising import duties, partially offset by lower gasoline prices. Rate cut advocates within the Fed cite weaker jobs reports as justification for easing policy, while others await clearer inflation signals. Meanwhile, a Trump appointee’s nomination to the Fed sparks concerns of political influence over central bank independence as calls intensify for statutory reforms potentially altering U.S. monetary governance.