Trump Sets Early 2026 Timeline for New Fed Chair Pick

President Donald Trump has confirmed that he will reveal his choice for the next Fed Reserve Chair early next year. His comment gives the clearest timeline yet for a decision that could shape the direction of U.S. monetary policy.

Trump Confirms Fed Chair Timeline Amid Rising Speculation

According to a Bloomberg report, Trump made the announcement during a Cabinet meeting at the White House. He said the pick will be unveiled in early 2026. The announcement comes after weeks of rumors as to who will fill the post held by Jerome Powell upon the expiry of his term in May.

Trump has constantly criticized Powell on how he is slow to make rate cuts and has indicated the next chair will have to be more aggressive. Scott Bessent, the Treasury Secretary has been in charge of the process of selection. Bessent previously indicated that a decision for the U.S. central bank head might be reached near Christmas.

However, there has been a slight change in the timeline based on the latest statement by Trump. The president also indicated that he already knows who the person he will nominate is but will not reveal him. He has even claimed that the list is down to one person already.

*TRUMP: WE HAVE FED CHAIR CANDIDATES DOWN TO ONE

— zerohedge (@zerohedge) December 2, 2025

Will the New Fed Chair Be Kevin Hassett? 

Meanwhile, Kevin Hassett, the head of White House National Economic Council, is regarded as the leading candidate. In addition, a recent remark by Hassett saying he’s happy to serve hints that he is willing to become Jerome Powell’s successor.

Other names still in the mix include Fed Governors Christopher Waller and Michelle Bowman, former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh, and BlackRock executive Rick Rieder. Trump also jokes often about choosing Bessent, though Bessent continues to reject the idea.

Trump’s decision comes as the Federal Reserve faces strong pressure over the pace of rate cuts. The Fed has been accused by the president of being too slow. He has always insisted that the central bank should make its decision on rate cuts faster. Under the law, Powell is allowed to continue serving as a governor once his chair term has ended, but not as president of the institution.

Will Trump Change The Long Term Policy At Fed? 

The new head of the U.S. Fed will have to be confirmed by the Senate. Assuming that Trump picks an outsider to the Fed, the person would have a 14-year term as governor.

The decision would give Trump a major opportunity to reshape the Federal Reserve. This also comes at a time when economic policy remains central to market expectations. The next chair will oversee critical choices on interest rates and financial stability. Trump’s confirmation of an early 2026 announcement now sets a clear countdown for investors and policymakers waiting for the next era of Fed leadership.