Powell declines to weigh in on potential successors as Trump eyes next Fed chair

Core Viewpoint - Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell remains focused on his current role and has not indicated any plans regarding his future or potential successors as President Trump considers candidates for the Fed chair position [1][4]. Group 1: Powell's Position and Future - Powell stated that Trump's search for a new Fed chair does not affect his ability to perform his duties [1]. - He emphasized his focus on his remaining time as chair and has no new information to share regarding his future [4]. - Powell, appointed by Trump in 2017, is set to complete his term in May 2026 [4]. Group 2: Potential Successors - Trump is reportedly considering several candidates to replace Powell, including his top economic adviser Kevin Hassett, current Federal Reserve Board Governor Christopher Waller, and former Fed board Governor Kevin Warsh [5]. - Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has completed interviews with candidates and submitted five names to Trump, expressing a desire for "forward-looking" regulators [6][7]. Group 3: Trump's Perspective - Trump has publicly criticized Powell, describing him as "stiff" and expressing a desire for a Fed chair who will be honest about interest rates, advocating for the lowest rates in the world [7].