Fed Chair Interviews Begin Friday, Says Scott Bessent

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent revealed that interviews for the next Federal Reserve Chair will commence this Friday, with 11 candidates under consideration. The pool includes current and former Fed officials as well as private sector professionals, though specific names were not disclosed. Media reports suggest contenders like Fed Governors Michelle Bowman and Christopher Waller, former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh, and National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett.

Bessent emphasized the strength of the candidate group, noting he will meet with them around Labor Day to narrow the list for President Trump. Other potential candidates include former regional Fed President James Bullard and Marc Sumerlin, a former economic adviser to President George W. Bush. Bessent himself was previously considered but ruled out earlier this month.

The selection is drawing significant attention as current Chair Jerome Powell's term concludes in May 2026. President TRUMP has frequently criticized the Fed for not cutting interest rates quickly enough this year, adding political weight to the decision.