Introduction to the Controversy
The Republican Party’s efforts to install Trump-aligned officials may backfire, according to a recent editorial by the Wall Street Journal’s conservative editorial board. This opinion piece highlights the potential long-term consequences of the GOP’s actions, particularly in regards to the confirmation of White House aide Stephen Miran to the Federal Reserve Board of Governors.
The Editorial Board’s Concerns
The editorial board argues that the Republican Party’s acquiescence to President Donald Trump’s "executive-power excesses" sets a precedent for Democrats to use the same tactics in the future. This could lead to a progressive President appointing a White House official to the Federal Reserve, citing Trump and Senate precedent. The board warns that this would undermine the central bank’s independence and potentially harm the country.
The Implications of Miran’s Appointment
Miran’s potential appointment to the Federal Reserve raises concerns about the central bank’s independence. As a White House aide, Miran has stated that he plans to keep his job while serving on the board, which could lead to questions about his loyalty and potential bias. The editorial board argues that this would draw the central bank’s independence into question, as everyone would know that Miran is "speaking for, and answering to, the President."
The Potential Consequences for the GOP
The GOP’s actions could have significant consequences, not only for the country but also for the party itself. The editorial board warns that the GOP might regret the precedent they are setting, as it could be used against them in the future. With the possibility of a Democratic President in 2029, the GOP’s actions could come back to haunt them.
The Warning from the Editorial Board
The editorial board’s warning is clear: the failure to resist Trump’s executive-power excesses will hurt the GOP and the country in the future. They argue that a progressive President will be able to point to Trump and Senate precedent if they try to put a White House official on the Fed. This could lead to a dangerous precedent, where the central bank’s independence is compromised, and the country suffers as a result.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Republican Party’s efforts to install Trump-aligned officials, particularly Stephen Miran, may have significant consequences for the country and the party itself. The Wall Street Journal’s editorial board warns that the GOP’s actions could set a dangerous precedent, undermining the central bank’s independence and potentially harming the country. As the GOP considers their actions, they would do well to remember the editorial board’s warning: the failure to resist Trump’s executive-power excesses will have long-term consequences that may ultimately hurt the party and the country.
