Chris Phelan, a Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis adviser and University of
Minnesota professor, is reportedly the leading candidate to become President
Donald Trump’s next chief economist, succeeding Stephen Miran. If confirmed by
the Senate, he would chair the Council of Economic Advisers. The potential
nomination comes as Trump’s economic approval ratings decline, partly due to
rising gas prices linked to the Middle East conflict. The White House has not
officially confirmed any personnel decision.