Internet reports that Trump called Federal Reserve Chairman Powell "terrible" and said he knew of three or four people who were contenders for the next Federal Reserve chairman. Asked if he was interviewing a candidate to replace Powell, Trump told reporters: "I know who I would choose among three or four people." According to reports, the main contenders include former Federal Reserve Governor Kevin Walsh, National Economic Council Director Hassett, current Federal Reserve Governor Waller and Treasury Secretary Bessant. Trump has repeatedly criticized Powell for not cutting interest rates and raised the idea of firing him or appointing a successor as soon as possible, although he has often retracted those threats. Some analysts believe that this is an effort by Trump to influence monetary policy through the "shadow Federal Reserve Chairman" before Powell steps down in May 2026.