Trump Narrows Fed Chair Picks to Four as Kugler Resigns
President TRUMP has identified Kevin Warsh, Kevin Hassett, Christopher Waller, and Michelle Bowman as final contenders for Federal Reserve chair. The selection process took a turn when Scott Bessent, previously considered a strong candidate, declined the position to remain at the Treasury Department. "I love Scott, but he wants to stay where he is," Trump remarked during a CNBC interview.
The shortlisted candidates share a common stance favoring lower interest rates, signaling a potential shift in monetary policy. Their overt alignment with Trump's preferences has raised concerns about politicization of the central bank, unsettling Wall Street observers.
The announcement coincides with the unexpected resignation of Fed Governor Adriana Kugler, effective Friday. Her departure creates an immediate vacancy, adding urgency to Trump's appointment decisions. Warsh and Hassett bring prior Fed experience and have been vocal critics of current Fed policies.