Documents unsealed by the Department of Justice reveal that the attorneys for Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell have discussed the possibility of him remaining on the central bank's board of governors after his term as chair ends in May, a precedent-breaking decision. The potential for Powell to remain as a governor could represent a potential swing vote on the Fed's seven-member governing board, which traditionally leaves their board seats when a new chair takes over. This raises concerns about Fed independence and the impact of President Donald Trump on Fed policy if he replaces another member. The Justice Department accused Powell's lawyers of "strongarming" the U.S. attorney with the suggestion he would leave the board if the investigation was withdrawn.