Trump picks Kevin Warsh to chair Federal Reserve amid pressure campaign to cut rates

Updated on: January 30, 2026 / 10:33 AM EST / CBS News

Trump picks Kevin Warsh to chair Federal Reserve amid pressure campaign to cut rates

TL;DR

  • President Trump announced Kevin Warsh as his nominee for Federal Reserve chair.
  • Warsh previously served on the Fed's board from 2006 and has academic and investment experience.
  • Trump has consistently pressured the Fed to lower interest rates, which Warsh has indicated he is open to.
  • Warsh has been critical of the Fed's inflation management and called for 'regime change' but also stressed the need for Fed independence.
  • The nomination follows Trump's public disputes with current Fed Chair Jerome Powell over interest rate policy.
  • Powell recently faced subpoenas, which he argued were an attempt to intimidate the Fed, though the White House denied Trump directed the Justice Department.
  • The confirmation of Warsh may be difficult due to Republican Senate opposition related to the subpoenas and differing views on Fed policy.
  • The Federal Reserve operates with a dual mandate of low inflation and high employment, balancing these goals when setting interest rates.
  • Interest rate decisions are made by the Federal Open Market Committee, though the chair wields significant influence.
  • Experts believe the Fed's independence from the executive branch is crucial for maintaining credibility and avoiding politically motivated decisions that could lead to higher inflation.