Waller had a 'strong interview' for Fed chair with Trump as president appears to turn focus to job market

Core Viewpoint - Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller had a strong interview for the Fed chair position with President Trump, focusing on the labor market and job creation [1][4]. Group 1: Interview Details - The interview took place at the president's residence and included Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, chief of staff Susie Wiles, and deputy chief of staff Dan Scavino [2]. - Blackrock's Rick Rieder is scheduled for an interview for the Fed chair position in the last week of the year, while Fed Governor Michelle Bowman is no longer a candidate [2]. Group 2: Candidate Evaluation - National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett and former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh have also been interviewed by Trump for the Fed chair position [3]. - The conversation with Waller aimed to dispel concerns that Trump was seeking a candidate who would simply follow his directives on interest rates, indicating a broader interest in economic issues [4]. Group 3: Presidential Remarks - Trump expressed that the Fed Chair should consult with him on interest rates, emphasizing that while he should be listened to, he does not expect the chair to follow his directives exactly [5]. - Trump praised Waller during a press interaction, highlighting his long-standing involvement with him and his previous nomination to the Fed [5]. Group 4: Ongoing Process - Despite the positive feedback regarding Waller, there is no indication that he is the leading candidate, and the interview process is ongoing, suggesting that a decision has not yet been made [6]. - Trump indicated that he would soon announce the next chairman of the Federal Reserve, who he believes should advocate for significantly lower interest rates [6].