[sfblah]

I'm sure Powell is a very nice man, and I have no issue with the idea that the other leaders aren't such great people.

But, I actually think in an ironic twist Powell's tenure may have had the most damaging effects on the US of any of these people. In my worldview, the Fed's interest rate policy was one of the main catalysts in the US shift toward extreme polarization and authoritarianism (on both sides, honestly).

I realize Powell wasn't alone in promoting this, and a lot of blame goes to Yellen, Bernanke and Greenspan. But, as a member of the Fed board since 2012, I think he's presided over the last best chance to change course and avoid a debt bomb.

Back in 2012-2016, I believe the Fed could have allowed a recession and solved a lot of the problems we now face. Same goes for 2020 (which I view as a fake recession). Fast forward to 2026, I'm not actually sure there's a way out.

[anonymars]

Can you elaborate on how a recession would have solved things?

[whateveracct]

HNers like to think they are experts on monetary policy. It reminds me of the average (astro)physics HN thread. A bunch of laymen talking with authority.