White House National Economic Council director Hassett said on Friday President Trump and Fed chair Kevin Warsh regularly discuss economic issues. Hassett said he does not sit in on those calls but is confident the president would not press Warsh on rate decisions. He said the two have a long-standing, close relationship from New York and Florida and routinely talk about the economy; such regular calls are unusual historically and have prompted concern about presidential influence on Fed policy.

White House National Economic Council director Hassett said on Friday President Trump and Fed chair Kevin Warsh regularly discuss economic issues. Hassett said he does not sit in on those calls but is confident the president would not press Warsh on rate decisions. He said the two have a long-standing, close relationship from New York and Florida and routinely talk about the economy; such regular calls are unusual historically and have prompted concern about presidential influence on Fed policy. Hassett added Trump respects the Fed’s independence.