President Donald Trump visited the United States Federal Reserve building in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, accompanied by Fed Chair Jerome Powell. Their meeting attracted significant media attention, particularly a light-hearted moment that quickly went viral on social media, despite their ongoing public feud.
A Viral Moment
As Trump and Powell walked away from the media staging area following a joint press conference, Trump patted the 72-year-old Powell on the back and joked, “I’d love him to lower the interest rates.” This moment captured the attention of many, highlighting the contrast between Trump’s boisterous personality and Powell’s more reserved demeanor.
NOW – Trump confronts Jerome Powell at the Federal Reserve. pic.twitter.com/OgLDXA4Ojz
— Disclose.tv (@disclosetv) July 24, 2025
Controversy Over Renovation Costs
The press conference focused on the controversial $3.1 billion renovation of the Federal Reserve building. Both figures, standing side-by-side, discussed the costs, with Trump asserting that expenses had skyrocketed.
Powell quickly interjected, saying, “I haven’t heard that from anybody.” Trump insisted that the latest figures were accurate, but Powell clarified that he was including the cost of renovating a third building in his estimates.
“You’re including the Martin renovation,” Powell stated, emphasizing that Trump was referencing another project entirely.
Internet Reacts to Their Dynamic
The internet had a field day with the interactions between Trump and Powell, sparking humorous reactions across social media platforms.
Look at poor Jerome! I almost feel sorry for him!
— Tom Canaday (@Tom_in_SFCA) July 24, 2025
Many users commented on how Trump’s commanding presence seemed to overshadow Powell, turning their professional debate into an entertaining spectacle.