U.S. President Donald Trump said that U.S. National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett and former Federal Reserve Board member Kevin Warsh are the strongest candidates for the U.S. Federal Reserve chairmanship and that he expects the next Fed chair to consult with him on interest rates.
In an interview with the Wall Street Journal on Friday, Trump said Warsh had risen to the list of candidates who would compete with Hassett, whom many see as the strongest candidate for the presidency.
“I think both Kevins are great,” Trump said, adding, “There are a few other great people.”
Trump had previously indicated he had largely made up his mind on the nominee, saying on Monday he had a clear idea of who he would nominate. The president also said last month he knew who he would choose for the job. The latest comments suggest the selection process is still ongoing.
Trump met with Warsh on Wednesday. It is unclear whether Trump plans to meet with other candidates for the position.
The president said Warsh told him borrowing costs should be lower. Trump said he believes the next Fed chair should consult with him on interest rates. This is seen as a step that would undermine the Fed's tradition of independence.
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