Outside of a U.S. President bending norms, the Fed also faces challenges in achieving its economic objectives. Inflation remains above its 2% target: Its preferred measure is at 2.4%, though core prices — considered a better gauge of where inflation is headed — rose 2.8% in November from a year ago.

The Federal Reserve is set to announce its first interest rate decision of 2025 and with a pause expected, it could prompt President Donald Trump to renew his criticism of the central bank.

The decision reflects a cautious stance as the Fed assesses the direction of inflation and policies President Trump may implement.