U.S. President-elect Donald Trump speaks at the America First Policy Institute (AFPI) gala at Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, U.S., November 14, 2024. REUTERS/Carlos Barria/File Photo

Donald Trump’s Search for Treasury Secretary Expands

President-elect Donald Trump has broadened the search for a Treasury secretary after the process stalled over the weekend, according to sources familiar with the matter. Previously favored candidates, including banker Howard Lutnick and investor Scott Bessent, remain in contention, but no final decision has been made.

Expanded Candidate Pool

In addition to Lutnick and Bessent, new names have emerged as potential nominees. These include Marc Rowan, CEO of Apollo Global Management, and former Federal Reserve Governor Kevin Warsh. Sources confirmed these developments following earlier reports from the New York Times and Wall Street Journal.

Neither Rowan nor Warsh immediately responded to requests for comment. Spokespersons for Bessent and Lutnick also declined to comment. It remains unclear if any candidates have been formally ruled out or if additional contenders may yet be considered.

Importance of the Treasury Secretary Role

The Treasury secretary oversees the U.S. government’s financial and economic policies, making the position one of the most closely watched appointments in any administration. Decisions made by the Treasury Department affect global financial markets, trade policy, and domestic economic strategy, amplifying investor and Wall Street interest in Trump’s final selection.

Lutnick Considered for Other Roles

Sources indicate that Lutnick is also under consideration for another prominent economic position, potentially that of commerce secretary. Two of Trump’s key advisors, Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has been tapped to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, expressed public support for Lutnick.

Musk and Kennedy have used social media to back Lutnick’s potential appointment, though neither provided additional comment when contacted.

Transition Team’s Silence

Trump’s transition team has not issued a formal statement regarding the Treasury secretary search, and attempts to reach the team for comment went unanswered.