BackECONOMY
Jerome Powell speech today: When will Fed chair make his last address? Latest FOMC meeting update
Powell is scheduled to speak at 2:30 PM ET after the Fed's second-day policy meeting, with rates expected to hold. The article also notes the nomination of Kevin Warsh to succeed Powell and a previously dropped DOJ probe, all within the context of Powell's looming May 15 end as chair.
Why It Matters
Powell's address could signal future policy directions or uncertainties as his chair tenure nears its end; Warsh's nomination and the probe's status affect the Fed's independence and leadership transition.
Timeline
6 Events
Powell remains on the Federal Reserve Board until 2028
2028
Powell's term as a Federal Reserve governor runs through 2028, leaving open the possibility that he could remain on the Board after stepping down as chair.
Powell chair term ends on May 15, 2026
May 15, 2026
Powell's term as Fed chair is scheduled to end on May 15, heightening scrutiny of his future role and the Fed's leadership transition.
Powell to speak at 2:30 PM ET
April 29, 2026
Powell is scheduled to deliver a press conference at 2:30 PM ET following the FOMC meeting, potentially his final address as Fed chair before the term ends on May 15.
Senate Banking Committee advances Warsh nomination
April 29, 2026
The Senate Banking Committee voted 13-11 to advance Kevin Warsh's nomination to succeed Powell; Democrats opposed the move in committee.
Fed policy meeting reconvenes for second day at 9:00 AM local time
April 29, 2026
The Federal Reserve reconvened at 9:00 AM local time for the second day of its policy meeting, with officials widely expected to hold the federal funds rate in the 3.50% to 3.75% range.
DOJ probe into Powell and Fed renovation cost overruns dropped
April 24, 2026
The U.S. Justice Department probe into Powell and related Fed renovation cost overruns was dropped, removing a potential obstacle linked to Warsh's nomination and ongoing discussions about Fed independence.