Trump Nominates Economist Christopher Phelan as Chief Economic Adviser

U.S. President Donald Trump has nominated University of Minnesota economist Christopher Phelan to serve as his next chief economic adviser, according to a White House announcement on Tuesday. If confirmed by the Senate, Phelan will take over a key role in shaping U.S. economic policy and advising the administration on fiscal and monetary strategies.

Phelan’s nomination follows a leadership change within the Council of Economic Advisers (CEA). The vacancy arose after former CEA Chair Stephen Miran was appointed to the Federal Reserve’s Board of Governors. Miran had stepped down from his White House role in February, honoring a prior commitment made during his Senate confirmation process.

With nearly two decades of academic experience, Christopher Phelan has built a strong reputation in the field of economics. He has served as a professor at the University of Minnesota’s Department of Economics for approximately 19 years, contributing to research and teaching in macroeconomics and policy analysis. In addition to his academic work, Phelan previously held a position as a senior economist at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, giving him valuable insight into central banking and economic policy development.

Phelan earned his PhD in Economics from the University of Chicago, a globally recognized institution known for producing leading economists. His combination of academic expertise and real-world policy experience positions him as a notable candidate for the role of chief economic adviser.

If approved, Phelan will play a critical role in guiding the Trump administration’s economic agenda, particularly at a time when financial markets and policy decisions remain under close scrutiny. His nomination is expected to draw attention from lawmakers and economists alike as the Senate review process moves forward.