Senate Panel Advances Warsh Nomination as Powell Probe Ends
A Senate committee has scheduled a vote to advance Kevin Warsh's nomination to lead the Federal Reserve, following the closure of a criminal investigation into current Fed Chair Jerome H. Powell. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced the end of the probe, which had been a significant barrier to Warsh's confirmation. The investigation focused on the Fed's $2.5 billion headquarters renovation. Although the inquiry could resume if new evidence emerges, its closure has cleared a path for Warsh's nomination. The Senate Banking Committee, led by Republicans, plans to vote on April 29. The committee holds a narrow 13-11 majority, making any defection critical. Sen. Thom Tillis, who had previously blocked Warsh's nomination, has not yet indicated his current stance. Democrats, led by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, remain skeptical, criticizing the administration's handling of the Fed's independence and the ongoing investigation into Fed governor Lisa Cook.