[Wall Street Attempts to Block Trump's Nomination of Hassett as Fed Chair] On December 4, Fox Business reporter Charles Gasparino revealed that Wall Street and the U.S. business community are working to dissuade Trump from nominating Kevin Hassett as Federal Reserve Chair. The opposition cites Hassett's political background (Director of the National Economic Council) and lack of credibility, arguing that such a nomination could undermine the Fed's independence, lead to higher long-term interest rates, and cause internal turmoil. If Hassett were to lower short-term interest rates through a split vote to address inflationary pressures, it could be seen as political interference, triggering inflation and driving up mortgage and consumer rates, thereby impacting economic performance. Other potential candidates include Kevin Warsh and Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller.