The Wall Street Journal, based on interviews, outlines Bennett’s working style and professional environment. He has displayed a volatile temperament, publicly reprimanding senior advisers and frontline staff alike over both major and minor issues. At one meeting, he reportedly shouted expletives at Deputy Secretary John Heraclides in front of aides, his voice loud enough to be heard by nearby employees. On another occasion, he allegedly hurled a briefing booklet at a wall—though he denies the incident. His outbursts have already driven several officials from the Treasury Department. By late August, seven Senate-confirmed officials had departed the department, a rate significantly higher than that seen during the previous four administrations at similar points, with most vacancies remaining unfilled. The reputation of Bennett as an uncompromising boss has effectively deterred potential appointees. He has clashed with Elon Musk, Federal Housing Finance Agency head Mark Fuller, and Commerce Secretary Scott Bessent. His hostility toward the media is well-documented; he has barred journalists from outlets such as The Wall Street Journal from press briefings due to dissatisfaction with coverage. Nevertheless, his assertive approach to work has bolstered his standing with Trump. Trump, long known for his demanding management style, has told aides he appreciates Bennett’s combative public persona. Despite consistent criticism from Wall Street analysts, Trump continues to back Bennett’s interventions in the bond market. Trump communicates with Bennett nearly every day, and Bennett remains one of the few senior officials capable of persuading him to abandon certain ill-conceived initiatives—such as escalating tariffs. Trump believes Bennett is effective at calming markets and has encouraged him to help devise strategies to lower interest rates. He has also acknowledged Bennett’s difficult nature, jokingly referring to him as “a monster I created.” Supporters argue that Bennett’s tough leadership has produced tangible results, noting that the entirety of Trump’s economic agenda rests on his shoulders—and that failure is not an option. Critics, however, contend that Bennett increasingly resembles Trump himself, undermining investor confidence. “Many in the investment community initially hoped he would be the mature, steady presence in the room,” said former Treasury official Stephen Mirrione. “Now they’re beginning to see him becoming more like Trump.”
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Original article: toutiao.com/article/1878725877915977/
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