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

**December 15** Per CNBC, citing sources familiar with the situation, Kevin Hassett—a former market favorite for Fed chair—has recently been questioned by senior officials with direct sway over former President Trump’s decisions. The irony: Once viewed as the top pick to replace current Chair Powell because of his tight ties to Trump, Hassett now faces pushback for being “too cozy with the president.” That pressure may explain why candidate interviews were initially canceled in early December, then rescheduled (interviews for at least Kevin Warsh wrapped last week). Trump had earlier told reporters he’d picked a Fed chair, but in a Friday *Wall Street Journal* interview, he named former Fed governor Kevin Warsh as a finalist alongside Hassett— a surprise to markets. Kalshi’s prediction market saw Hassett’s election odds plummet. “Both Kevins are excellent,” Trump said. As of Monday, Hassett still leads on Kalshi at 51% probability— but that’s a steep drop from his early-month high of over 80%. Warsh’s odds, meanwhile, have jumped from ~11% in early December to 44%. Current pushback is more about boosting Warsh than bashing Hassett. JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon praised both at a Thursday event, but some remarks left attendees thinking he leans more toward Warsh, a former Fed governor.