Trump Commerce Secretary Downplays Recession Fears Despite GDP Contraction Warning

Howard Lutnick dismisses Federal Reserve's projection of a 2.4% economic contraction, drawing scrutiny over his handling of economic concerns.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick rejected the Atlanta Federal Reserve's forecast of a 2.4% GDP contraction for the first quarter of 2025, calling it 'ridiculous.'
During a Fox Business interview, Lutnick insisted that the U.S. economy is 'awesome' and downplayed fears of a recession, despite growing market instability.
Lutnick's remarks have drawn criticism within the Trump administration, with some insiders suggesting he may be blamed for economic challenges tied to the president's tariff policies.
Maria Bartiromo, the Fox Business host, pressed Lutnick on the Federal Reserve's projections and noted President Trump has not explicitly ruled out the possibility of a recession.
Lutnick has previously defended the administration’s tariffs, claiming they are 'worth it' even if they contribute to economic downturns, further fueling controversy over his economic messaging.