White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett has emerged as the frontrunner for President Donald Trump’s choice of the next Federal Reserve chair. His views on interest rates align closely with the President’s push for lower borrowing costs, setting the stage for a potentially significant change in monetary policy. 2026 is an important year for the Fed as Powell’s term ends, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is leading the selection process, expected to complete it before Christmas 2025. Hassett has publicly criticized the Fed’s current interest rate policies and indicated he would cut rates immediately if in charge. This aligns with President Trump’s long-standing frustration with what he sees as restrictive monetary policy. Other potential candidates include Kevin Warsh, Christopher Waller, Michelle Bowman, Rick Rieder, each of whom brings a distinct policy perspective to the table. Hassett’s background, his ties to Coinbase Global Inc., and his connections to financial regulation are under scrutiny. While none of these elements disqualify him, they have generated concerns about the potential for political influence on monetary policy.