Ben Bernanke, chairman of the US Federal Reserve, is rapidly converting the secretive Fed into something of an open house as he tries to ward off criticism of plans to expand the central bank's powers after the financial crisis.
Mr Bernanke, who is still expected to be re-nominated as chairman by Barack Obama when his four-year term expires in January, broke with precedent last Sunday when he held a “town hall” question and answer session in Kansas City.
In addition, Mr Bernanke has given an interview to the 60 Minutes television programme and held something that looked like a press conference in February – another break with precedent. Cynics believe Mr Bernanke is using this public relations outreach to ensure he is reappointed.