Representative Nikema Williams (D-GA) led eleven of her Congressional colleagues in a letter condemning President Trump’s October 7 memorandum establishing a “committee of inquiry” to investigate allegations that Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook made false statements about her mortgages.
The letter also calls for canceling her November 5 hearing.
What is notable about Lisa Cook? Lisa Cook is the first Black woman to serve on the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, an HBCU-educated economist, and a native Atlantan.
Many consider her a qualified governor whose unparalleled perspective has informed how the country has navigated economic adjustments under the Trump Administration.
Why does President Trump want her removed? The President previously sought to fire Cook over allegations of mortgage fraud. Ultimately, in a 5-4 decision earlier this year, the Supreme Court ruled Trump could not immediately remove her.
What Rep. Nikema Williams and her colleagues had to say in the letter:
- “Dear Mr. President: We are writing regarding the October 7, 2026 memorandum to establish a “committee of inquiry” to investigate allegations that Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook made false statements about her mortgages.
- “We condemn your decision to convene this so-called "committee of inquiry" to examine the allegations against Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook. We are concerned that this “committee of inquiry” is designed with a predetermined goal, given it is comprised solely of three participants whom you appointed to your administration, and who have allegiances to you.
- “This sham committee demonstrates your effort to fire Governor Cook at any cost, without legitimate cause. There is nothing impartial about that, and no one is fooled. We urge you to call off your effort to remove Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook.”
Further Context: In Trump v. Cook, the Supreme Court ruled that the President cannot immediately fire the Governor of the Federal Reserve.
The Court ruled that the Trump Administration failed to provide Cook with the required statutory and procedural protections. These protections include a pre-termination notice, an explanation of evidence, and an opportunity to respond.
