Trump Nominates Kevin Warsh to lead the US Federal Reserve

US President Donald Trump has announced Kevin Warsh as his choice to lead the US Federal Reserve when current chairman Jerome Powell’s four-year term comes to an end in May, a move that could usher in a new phase for American monetary policy amid heightened economic and political scrutiny.

Warsh, a former Federal Reserve governor, is no stranger to the institution or to speculation around its leadership. He previously served on the Fed’s board from 2006 to 2011 and was widely considered for the chairmanship during Trump’s first term in office. Known for his critical views of the central bank’s recent policy direction, Warsh is expected to favour a more accommodative stance, including support for lower interest rates in the near term.

The nomination comes at a sensitive moment for the Federal Reserve, as questions about its independence have intensified following Trump’s increasingly public criticism of Jerome Powell. The president has repeatedly expressed frustration that interest rates were not cut more aggressively, arguing that faster action would have better supported economic growth.

Those tensions deepened recently after federal prosecutors opened a criminal investigation into testimony Powell gave to the Senate concerning renovations to Federal Reserve buildings. The Department of Justice probe prompted a strong response from Powell, along with public messages of support from several former Fed chairs and prominent central bank leaders, underscoring the institutional significance of the moment.

Against this backdrop, Warsh’s re-emergence as a leading contender had been widely anticipated in recent weeks, as speculation mounted over who would eventually succeed Powell. Trump formally confirmed his choice on his Truth Social platform, praising Warsh in emphatic terms and saying he “will go down as one of the GREAT Fed Chairmen, maybe the best.”

If approved, Warsh would assume leadership of the world’s most influential central bank at a time of exceptional challenge and opportunity. Economists and financial markets are closely watching how the Fed navigates inflation concerns, growth prospects and political pressure, making the next chair’s approach particularly consequential.

Before taking office, however, Warsh must secure confirmation from the US Senate, a process that could involve extensive hearings and potentially lengthy delays. That scrutiny is likely to focus on his views about interest rates, financial regulation and the long-standing principle of central bank independence.

Even so, supporters argue that Warsh’s deep experience during periods of economic stress — including the global financial crisis — positions him well to guide the Fed through a complex environment.