Fed Raises Interest Rates; Trump Stumps for Whatley in NC | NTD Good Morning (Sept. 17)

The Federal Reserve is raising interest rates for the first time in three years, voting unanimously to raise its benchmark rate by a quarter point, to a range of 3.75 percent to 4 percent. The Fed says major inflation measures show it is still above 3 percent. The Fed’s latest projections show most policymakers expect another rate hike later this year. The Fed’s next policy meeting is scheduled for the end of October.

Speaking at a North Carolina rally, President Donald Trump made a strong pitch for Republicans ahead of the fast-approaching midterm elections, saying that everything is at stake. Stumping for Michael Whatley—who is running for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Thom Tillis, who is set to retire—Trump praised Whatley’s drive, telling a story about how Whatley worked the phones hard to make sure Trump came to North Carolina to help in the wake of Hurricane Helene.

During her annual state of the union address, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she wants to invite Canada to become an associate member of the European Union. Some officials and experts say this could help the two parties counter the United States on trade. Trump has been accusing the EU and Canada of unfair trade practices. Some experts are also saying this move could backfire.