Bill Pulte’s Criminal Referrals Put Lisa Cook Fed Future in Doubt

Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook is facing escalating pressure after FHFA Director Bill Pulte filed a second criminal referral to the Department of Justice. The latest complaint alleges her misrepresented details about a third property, raising questions about her mortgage filings and disclosures to the U.S. government. The Kobeissi Letter shared the details over X (formerly Twitter).

Source: X

Pulte Warns Fed Officials: Three Strikes and You’re Out

According to Pulte Lisa Cook News , the case centers on a condominium in Cambridge, Massachusetts. In April 2021, she secured a $361,000 mortgage on the condo, declaring it her “second home.” But only eight months later, she listed the same property as a rental on government ethics forms, reporting income between $15,000 and $50,000.

Source: X

Mortgage experts note that second-home loans usually require lower down payments and interest rates, while investment property loans cost more. Pulte argues that Lisa Cook may have benefited unfairly from the lower rate while later treating the condo as a rental.

The referral also points to alleged inconsistencies with her properties in Atlanta, GA, and Ann Arbor, MI. In filings from 2022 to 2025, she described the Atlanta property as her residence despite claims it was rented, and the Ann Arbor home as personal property, though it may have been leased to tenants.

“These inconsistencies appear her made multiple false representations, including to the U.S. Government,” the referral states.

Trump-Lisa Cook Federal Board Lawsuit Shakes Washington Circles

The controversy comes as Cook challenges President Trump in court. In the lawsuit , she argues Trump’s attempt to remove her from the Board is “unlawful and void.” Trump counters that there is “sufficient reason” to believe she misled regulators about her properties.

This case has drawn attention because of Trump’s broader pressure on the Fed. He has already fired the BLS Commissioner, welcomed the resignation of Fed Governor Adriana Kugler, and publicly criticized Fed Chair Jerome Powell, calling him “too late” and “too political.”

Speculation is growing that Powell could be next under scrutiny. Analysts suggest Donald may push for Powell resignation rather than directly firing him, further fueling uncertainty.

Fed Gov. Lisa Cook Sues Trump Over Firing Attempt

The Lisa Cook sues Trump lawsuit highlights the clash between White House power and Federal Reserve independence. She maintains there is no legal cause to dismiss her. But if evidence in the Pulte criminal news gains traction, pressure may mount for her to step aside voluntarily.

On prediction markets like Polymarket, chances of Lisa Cook fired by December 31, 2025, have dropped to 39%. Names floated as possible successors include Stephen Miran (10%), Chris Waller (9%), David Malpass (8%), and Kevin Hassett (7%).

Source: Polymarket

After Kugler and Cook, Is Fed Chair Powell Next on the Radar?

Trump recently fired Fed Governor Adriana Kugler and is continuously targeting others now. The political battle is creating ripples beyond Washington. Investors worry about how these disputes could influence monetary policy at a time when markets demand clarity.

Crypto traders are watching closely. On Thursday, the global crypto market cap fell to $3.87 trillion, down 0.88% in one day. Bitcoin slipped 1.32% to $111,576.59, while Ethereum dropped 2.11% to $4,479. Analysts point to the instability as one factor shaking investor sentiment.

If Trump Succeeds, What Could It Mean for Crypto?

If President and Pulte do succeed in getting her removed, and if Powell is also targeted, the Federal Reserve’s course of action could be changed. A Fed led by Trump’s pick could pursue rate cuts at a swifter pace, which could improve liquidity and be beneficial for crypto markets. But persistent controversies could diminish the trust in Fed autonomy, increasing the uncertainty.

Conclusion

The saga around Lisa Cook illustrates how individual legal issues can intertwine with monetary policy. With Pulte submitting multiple referrals, Trump increasing his pressure, and crypto markets responding to the uncertainty, the stakes are as high as ever. Confirming the allegations could dramatically change the leadership of the Federal and undermine market confidence in the financial stability of the U.S.

Disclaimer: This is for educational purposes only. Always do your own research before any crypto investment.