As the US approaches a potentially defining moment in global economic policy, former Federal Reserve Governor Kevin Wersh has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Jerome Powell as the next Federal Reserve Chairman, with President Donald Trump expected to formally announce the decision soon. The development has sparked intense speculation in financial markets, widespread debate over the Fed’s future direction, and questions about the central bank’s independence in the face of political pressure.On January 29–30, 2026, sources familiar with internal White House discussions confirmed that Wersch’s candidacy received significant momentum following a private meeting with President Trump at the White House, during which Wersch impressed senior officials with his views on monetary policy and economic strategy. Although the nomination was not formally announced as of Thursday evening, Trump has indicated that his choice would be revealed the following day and would be someone “well-respected and well-known in the financial world”, whom many observers believe would be a good fit for Wersh.
Who is Kevin Warsh: The claimant at the center of Fed drama
Kevin Wersh is not a newcomer to American economic policy. He previously served on the Federal Reserve Board of Governors from 2006 to 2011 under Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama and played a key role as the central bank’s liaison to Wall Street during the 2008 financial crisis. After leaving the Fed, Warsh transitioned into academia and economic research, taking a position as a Distinguished Visiting Fellow at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution, and advising public and private organizations on economic and monetary matters.
JUST IN: 🇺🇸President Trump says he will announce a new Federal Reserve chairman “tomorrow morning.”
According to Polymarket, Bitcoin-friendly Kevin Varsh’s chances of getting a job have increased to 88%. pic.twitter.com/LrBSDHOJeO
– Bitcoin Magazine (@BitcoinMagazine) 30 January 2026