Waller performed "outstandingly" in the Federal Reserve Chair interview, and Trump may shift focus to the job market

Trump is advancing the selection of the Federal Reserve Chair and has conducted an in-depth interview with current board member Christopher Waller, during which they discussed the labor market and how to stimulate job creation in detail. This interview has been described by senior government officials as "very successful," but Trump has not yet made a final decision.

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

According to senior government officials, this dialogue refuted external criticisms that Trump selects candidates solely based on whether they would yield to his wishes on interest rates. Trump covered a wide range of economic topics during the candidate interviews. Last week, Trump told The Wall Street Journal that the Federal Reserve Chair should consult with him on interest rate issues, stating, "I am a smart voice that should be listened to."

Reports indicate that the selection process is still ongoing. The list of candidates for Federal Reserve Chair has been narrowed down to four: Kevin Hassett, Kevin Warsh, Christopher Waller, and Rick Rieder of BlackRock, the latter of whom will be interviewed in the last week of the year. Federal Reserve Governor Michelle Bowman is no longer a candidate.

Multiple Candidates Interviewed

In addition to Waller, National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett and former Federal Reserve Governor Kevin Warsh have previously interviewed with Trump. Hassett is a popular candidate in the prediction markets for this position.

On Thursday, Trump praised Waller while responding to reporters' questions in the Oval Office: "I think he’s outstanding. He has been there for a long time and is someone I have been deeply involved with." Trump interviewed Waller in 2019 and nominated him to serve as a Federal Reserve Governor.

Despite Trump's praise for Waller and positive feedback from officials about the interview, there are no indications that he is the frontrunner for the position. Senior government officials stated that the interviews are following a "highly orderly process."

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