WASHINGTON _ The U.S. Senate probably will confirm President Donald Trump's pick to lead the Federal Reserve, but the process won't be free of drama.
Any of the five candidates Trump is considering for Fed chairman risk some uncomfortable moments before lawmakers. But each seems likely to secure the 51 votes needed to win confirmation, according to congressional aides, lobbyists and analysts.
Trump is expected to make a final decision by Nov. 3, choosing between current Fed Chair Janet Yellen, National Economic Council Director Gary Cohn, Fed Board Governor Jerome Powell, former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh or Stanford University economist John Taylor. Trump's closest advisers are steering him toward choosing either Powell or Taylor, according to several people familiar with the process.
"I think each of them would probably be confirmed in the end," Sen. Pat Toomey, a Pennsylvania Republican, said of the five finalists. "Each would have their own unique challenges as well."
The first Senate hurdle for Trump's nominee would be testimony before the Banking Committee, led by Idaho Republican Mike Crapo. He is among members of the panel who have declined to publicly endorse any candidate, saying they would reserve judgment until someone is selected.
While GOP lawmakers are expected to ultimately support any candidate Trump selects _ excluding Yellen _ some are trying to influence who gets nominated. Through backchannels, they've let the White House know who they like, and who they like less. Yellen would probably have to rely on backing from Democrats to get through.
A confirmation hearing would be set after the White House submits paperwork on the nominee, and the chosen candidate responds to a questionnaire from the banking committee. The nominee could face private meetings with each member of the panel in addition to the public grilling. Individual lawmakers could also seek answers to follow-up questions before the nomination is passed along for a full Senate vote.
Here's a look at the candidates Trump is considering and the obstacles they could face:
