Trump Seeks to Prove America’s Greatness by Reshaping Key Institutions

U.S. President Donald Trump is moving to bring traditionally independent institutions under his direct control, aiming to restructure national policy, health policy, and the economy in order to prove America’s greatness on the world stage.

In just three days, Trump dismissed three top officials: Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Susan Monarez, and railroad regulator Robert Primus. By doing so, the president signaled his determination to extend his influence even into sectors that are usually insulated from political interference.

The White House has defended the actions, saying Trump is acting within his legal authority to deliver on the agenda he was elected to enact. Officials said Monarez and Primus were removed because they resisted aligning with Trump’s priorities, with the administration insisting that the CDC must return to its “core mission.”

Trump made it clear that another motivation behind Cook’s dismissal was his plan to secure a majority of loyalists on the Federal Reserve’s Board of Governors, giving him greater sway over interest rate decisions that he wants to drive lower in order to strengthen the economy.

Experts warn that such moves could weaken the independence of institutions designed to serve the public above partisan politics. But Trump and his supporters argue that strong leadership and firm control are necessary to rebuild trust, reshape policy, and prove that America remains the greatest nation in the world.