Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell emphasized that the central bank's decisions on interest rates will be data-driven and not influenced by the upcoming presidential election, reaffirming the Fed's commitment to independence from political cycles. Powell highlighted the need for more positive inflation data before considering rate cuts, with the next consumer price index reading being a critical indicator. During his Senate testimony, he also acknowledged the dual risks of high inflation and a cooling labor market, noting that the Fed aims to balance these factors carefully. Investors are betting on potential rate cuts starting in September, contingent on favorable economic indicators. Powell's remarks underscore the Fed's cautious approach to adjusting monetary policy in a complex economic environment.