Economist Christopher Phelan has been nominated by President Trump to lead the White House Council of Economic Advisers, as part of efforts to strengthen his economic team amidst calls for lower interest rates.  

If confirmed by the senate, Phelan will succeed Stephen Miran, who left the position last September to join the Federal Reserve Board of Governors.

Currently, Pierre Yared, the council’s vice chairman, has been acting as interim leader of the CEA during the transition period. Phelan’s extensive background in economics, particularly his expertise in central bank operations, is expected to complement Trump’s commitment to shaping economic policies focused on lower interest rates.

Phelan holds an undergraduate degree from Duke University and a doctorate from the University of Chicago. He is also a Fellow of the Econometric Society. His previous associations with the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, first as an economist and later as a consultant, position him as a strategic asset to Trump’s economic agenda.

This nomination highlights Trump’s ongoing efforts to reinforce his economic team at a time when discussions surrounding monetary policy are increasingly prominent. Confirmation from the Senate is still pending to finalize Phelan’s appointment.

In a press release, the University of Minnesota congratulated Phelan on his nomination.