CNBC: Hassett's Appointment as Fed Chair Was Subject to Interference by Trump Ally Aide

BlockBeats News, December 15th, according to CNBC citing sources familiar with the matter, Kevin Hassett, who was once considered a "Fed chair candidate" by the market, has recently been questioned by senior officials who have a direct impact on former President Trump's decisions.

The contradiction lies in the fact that: Initially seen as the most likely candidate to replace current Chair Powell due to his close relationship with Trump, Hassett is now facing concerns for being "too close to the President." This pressure may explain why the candidate interviews were initially canceled in early December and then rescheduled (at least for Wash, which was completed last week).

Trump had previously revealed to reporters that he had chosen a Fed chair, but in an interview with The Wall Street Journal on Friday, he said former Fed governor Kevin Warsh had become a final candidate alongside Hassett, a statement that surprised the market. Kalshi's prediction market saw a sharp drop in the probability of Hassett's election.

"Both Kevins are excellent," Trump said.

As of Monday, Hassett still leads on the Kalshi platform with a 51% probability, but this is significantly down from the high of over 80% earlier this month; Warsh's probability has increased from about 11% in early December to 44%. The current resistance is more geared towards boosting Warsh rather than criticizing Hassett. JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon praised both individuals at an event on Thursday, but some of his comments led the audience to believe he was more inclined towards Warsh, who had previously served as a Fed governor.