The Playbook Podcast Who is Kevin Warsh?
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Feb 4, 2026 They dig into Kevin Warsh’s résumé and whether his establishment past fits with demands for political loyalty. They debate who influenced the pick and what it means for Fed independence. They cover a new short-term government funding fix and the ticking clock to another DHS lapse. There is also a segment on bipartisan moves to curb China’s hold on critical minerals and a cheerful zoo update.
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Warsh Looks Like An Establishment Pick
- Kevin Warsh's background signals establishment credibility rather than raw loyalty to Donald Trump.
- That history makes his nomination a test of whether he'll defend Federal Reserve independence or yield to political pressure.
Racetrack 'Lucky Pencil' Hustle
- Kevin Warsh sold programs at a racetrack as a kid and added a 'lucky pencil' to boost tips.
- The story illustrates his early knack for reading people and seizing small advantages.
Loyalty Demand Versus Fed Independence
- Trump's rhetorical demand for loyalty clashes with Warsh's record as a Fed hawk who has defended independence.
- Confirmation will reveal whether Warsh follows past principles or Trump's expectations.