What happens if the Federal Reserve has a tie vote?

If the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) has a tie vote, the federal funds rate would remain unchanged, as no policy change would be approved.

Why is the Federal Reserve divided on interest rates?

Policymakers are divided due to differing views on inflation persistence and the need for further interest rate adjustments to steer the economy.

Has the Federal Reserve ever had a tie vote before?

No, the Federal Reserve has never experienced a tie vote in its history, making the current situation unprecedented.

Home / Business and Economy / Fed on Brink of Historic Tie Vote?

Fed on Brink of Historic Tie Vote?

23 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Federal Reserve faces potential deadlock in upcoming rate-setting meeting.
Policymakers show division, with some leaning hawkish and others dovish.
A tie vote would leave federal funds rate unchanged, setting no precedent.

The Federal Reserve is experiencing significant internal division, potentially leading to a deadlock at its upcoming rate-setting meeting. Recent statements from policymakers indicate a stark divergence, with some advocating for caution due to persistent inflation while others hint at possible further rate adjustments.

This growing rift, particularly evident among regional Federal Reserve bank presidents, creates uncertainty regarding the committee's next move. Economists are attempting to forecast the vote count, suggesting a potential six-six tie, a scenario for which the Fed has no established procedure.

Such a deadlock would mean the federal funds rate remains unchanged, as a tie vote would not carry a policy change. The absence of a tie-breaking mechanism or precedent means the situation could become exceptionally complex, possibly deferring a decision to a future meeting.