President Donald Trump on Monday signed executive orders aimed at ending cashless bail and banning flag-burning on federal land, then announced he plans to remove Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook from her post.
President Trump said anyone who commits murder in Washington, D.C., should face the death penalty. He stated, “Anybody murders something in the capital, capital punishment,” during remarks in the Oval Office.
On Monday morning, Trump signed the first order to end cashless bail nationwide. He said the policy would protect victims and public safety. Later, he approved an order to bar flag-burning events on federal land.
After signing both orders, Trump declared his plan to remove Lisa Cook from the Federal Reserve Board of Governors. He said the move would restore accountability at the Fed. Cook responded that the president lacks the authority to fire her and that she will not resign.
Cook has served on the Fed since early 2024. Her appointment followed an extensive White House review. Economists praised her focus on inclusive economic growth and labor market equity.
Trump’s announcement set the stage for a legal battle likely headed to the U.S. Supreme Court. White House counsel said the president has broad powers over certain appointments. Legal experts disagreed, noting that Fed governors serve fixed terms under federal law.
On Tuesday, Trump convened a Cabinet meeting at the White House. He discussed economic priorities, including boosting small business lending and curbing inflation. No decisions on Cook’s status were reported during the session.
Legal standoffs elsewhere continued to complicate Trump’s agenda. In New Jersey, disputes over U.S. Attorney Alina Habba left judges unsure how to proceed with ongoing cases. Habba was appointed amid controversy in early 2025.
Late Monday night, Trump told reporters he is ready for a court fight with Lisa Cook. He said, “I’m prepared for legal battle.” Cook’s legal team has already filed a challenge in federal court.
In remarks unrelated to policy, Trump commented on pop star Taylor Swift and football star Travis Kelce. He praised Swift for her talent and wished the couple happiness.
On Tuesday morning, Fed official Michael Bessent said the central bank’s independence rests on a “political arrangement” between Congress and the White House. Bessent’s remarks underscored the potential clash over Cook’s removal.
As of Wednesday, no court has issued an order to halt Trump’s action. Legal watchers predict appeals may reach the U.S. Supreme Court given the high stakes for Fed governance.
The White House did not release further details on a replacement for Cook. Trump has not named a nominee. Senate Democrats signaled they would oppose any candidate who lacks experience in monetary policy.
With cashless bail and flag-burning orders set to take effect soon, the administration’s next legal test may focus on the courts’ power to check executive action. Observers say Cook’s challenge could clarify limits on presidential authority over independent agencies.
As the week progresses, attention will remain on D.C. courtroom filings and potential rulings. Trump’s move to seek the death penalty for capital murders further highlights his law-and-order emphasis heading into the fall elections.
