The Federal Reserve is widely expected to cut its key interest rate by 25 basis points today, bringing the federal funds rate to approximately 3.6 percent in its third reduction this year.This decision occurs amidst significant internal division among Fed officials and complex economic conditions, including a recent government shutdown that delayed crucial inflation and unemployment data.The central bank faces a cloudy path for 2026 as current inflation remains above its 2 percent target, and a new Fed chair, possibly Kevin Hassett and nominated by Donald Trump, will likely push for further rate reductions.