AsianFin -- The Trump administration on Sunday renewed its request to a federal appeals court to remove Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, intensifying political tensions around the U.S. central bank just days before a crucial vote on interest rates.

The filing to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia came ahead of a 3 p.m. ET deadline. In its brief, the administration described Cook’s petition to remain on the Fed board as “meritless,” citing concerns that she may have misrepresented her personal finances. The filing further questioned “whether Cook can be trusted to act with forthrightness, care, and disinterest in managing the U.S. money supply.”

Cook, an economist confirmed to the Fed Board of Governors in 2022, has faced mounting political scrutiny in recent weeks as President Donald Trump escalates criticism of the central bank. Trump has repeatedly called for steep interest rate cuts, taking aim at Fed Chair Jerome Powell while also singling out Cook and other members for removal.

The administration’s renewed attempt to oust Cook underscores the heightened political pressure surrounding the Fed’s independence. The central bank is scheduled to meet later this week to decide on monetary policy, with investors closely watching whether policymakers will respond to slowing economic data and Trump’s aggressive push for rate reductions.

The appeals court has not yet indicated when it might rule on the administration’s filing. A decision could have sweeping implications for the Fed’s credibility and its ability to resist political influence at a time of economic uncertainty.