A heated exchange erupted on Capitol Hill as Rep. Maxine Waters clashed with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during a House Financial Services Committee hearing focused on President Trump’s economic agenda. The confrontation highlighted deep partisan divisions over inflation, tariffs, and fiscal policy. At one point, Waters asked committee leadership whether someone could “shut him up,” drawing attention to the increasingly combative tone of the hearing.
Bessent appeared before the committee to defend President Trump’s economic strategy, including tariffs aimed at protecting domestic industries and strengthening U.S. leverage in global trade. Waters pressed Bessent on whether the administration would reconsider tariffs, claiming they contribute to higher consumer prices and housing costs. As Bessent attempted to explain the administration’s position, Waters repeatedly interrupted, insisting on yes-or-no answers.
Bessent maintained that President Trump’s policies are designed to promote long-term economic stability, protect American workers, and counter unfair trade practices. He cited broader economic indicators and argued that inflationary pressures cannot be attributed solely to tariffs. The Treasury secretary attempted to outline the administration’s broader strategy, but his responses were frequently cut short.
Rep. Gregory Meeks also joined the criticism, accusing Bessent of “covering for the president” during questioning on inflation and federal spending. Republicans on the committee pushed back, noting that Democratic interruptions limited the witness’s ability to provide full answers.
The exchange underscored ongoing disagreements over President Trump’s economic priorities. Republicans argue the agenda emphasizes growth, job creation, and national economic security. Democrats continue to focus on inflation and affordability concerns, using hearings to challenge administration officials rather than debate policy outcomes.
No policy changes resulted from the hearing, but the confrontation reinforced the sharp divide shaping economic debates in Washington.
