Waller Impresses in Fed Chair Interview as Trump Shifts Focus to Job Market

Deep News12-19 20:31

President Trump is advancing the selection process for the next Federal Reserve Chair, having conducted an in-depth interview with current Fed Governor Christopher Waller. The discussion centered on the labor market and strategies to stimulate job creation. Senior administration officials described the interview as "highly successful," though Trump has yet to make a final decision.

On December 19, sources revealed that the interview took place at the presidential residence on Wednesday, attended by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, and Deputy Chief of Staff Dan Scavino. The meeting concluded shortly before Trump delivered an economic speech that evening.

Officials emphasized that the conversation countered criticism suggesting Trump would select a candidate solely based on their willingness to defer to his views on interest rates. The interview reportedly covered a broad range of economic issues. Last week, Trump told reporters that the Fed Chair should consult him on rate decisions, stating, "I’m a smart voice that should be listened to."

The selection process remains ongoing. The shortlist has narrowed to four candidates: Kevin Hassett, Kevin Warsh, Christopher Waller, and BlackRock’s Rick Rieder, who is scheduled for an interview in the final week of the year. Notably, Fed Governor Michelle Bowman is no longer under consideration.

Multiple candidates have already been interviewed. Apart from Waller, National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett and former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh have met with Trump. Hassett is currently a frontrunner in prediction markets for the position.

When asked about Waller on Thursday, Trump praised him in the Oval Office: "I think he’s outstanding. He’s been there a long time and is someone I’ve been deeply involved with." Trump previously interviewed Waller in 2019 before nominating him as a Fed Governor.

Despite Trump’s favorable remarks and officials’ positive assessment of the interview, there is no indication Waller is the top choice. Senior officials stressed that the selection process follows a "highly structured approach."

Updates to follow.

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