(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.) D. Brian Blank, Mississippi State University and Brandy Hadley, Appalachian State University (THE CONVERSATION) After months of speculation, President Donald Trump nominated Kevin Warsh on Jan. 30, 2026, to be the next chair of the Federal Reserve. If confirmed by Congress, Warsh will inherit leadership of the U.S. central bank at a delicate time.