DOJ Drops Investigation, Paving Way for Trump's Federal Reserve Nominee
The US Department of Justice's decision to drop its investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has brought President Donald Trump's pick to lead the Fed, Kevin Warsh, one step closer to confirmation. Warsh, who has significant personal wealth, including investments in cryptocurrency, is awaiting a final Senate vote after a recent confirmation hearing. Trump, who has criticized Powell for high interest rates, chose Warsh to address this issue, but Senator Thom Tillis had vowed to block the nomination while the DOJ investigation was ongoing. The now-dropped probe, which was related to cost overruns in a Fed building project, had been a major hurdle for Warsh's confirmation. With the investigation closed, the likelihood of Warsh's confirmation before May 15 has increased significantly, according to prediction markets. The move is expected to give Trump greater influence over US monetary policy and provide him with more allies on the Fed board, which will make decisions on financial policy, including regulations for the crypto industry. Senator Elizabeth Warren has dismissed the move, stating that it is an attempt to clear the path for Warsh's confirmation, while Senator Tillis has expressed support for the nominee, calling him 'great'.