President Donald Trump hosted a ceremony at the White House on Friday to swear in Kevin Warsh as the chair of the Federal Reserve.
The leadership change at the central bank marks a significant shift in U.S. monetary policy oversight. As the head of the Federal Reserve, Warsh now manages the nation's most powerful economic tool, influencing interest rates and inflation control.
Warsh becomes the 17th chair of the Federal Reserve [1]. He succeeds Jerome Powell in the role after a confirmation process that concluded earlier this month. The U.S. Senate held a confirmation vote on May 13, 2026 [2], which proceeded along near-party lines.
The swearing-in ceremony took place in Washington, D.C., where President Trump presided over the event. This transition follows a period of intense scrutiny during Senate hearings, where lawmakers questioned Warsh on his approach to economic stability and independence from executive influence.
Warsh's appointment comes at a time when the Federal Reserve remains a focal point for global markets. The transition from Powell to Warsh signals a new chapter for the central bank's leadership as it navigates the current economic landscape.
Because the Federal Reserve operates with a degree of independence from the White House, the appointment of a new chair is closely watched by investors. The appointment process ensured that Warsh met the legislative requirements for the role before his official start this Friday.
“Kevin Warsh becomes the 17th chair of the Federal Reserve”
The appointment of Kevin Warsh represents a transition in the leadership of the U.S. central bank. Given the near-party-line nature of the Senate vote, the change may reflect a shift in the ideological approach to monetary policy and the relationship between the Federal Reserve and the executive branch.
