MNI BRIEF: Trump Says It's Not Necessary To Fire Fed's Powell

President Donald Trump on Thursday said it's not necessary to fire Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell before his term as leader ends in May, adding that he is considering two or three names to potentially next lead the central bank. 

"To do that is a big move. I just don't think that's necessary," Trump told reporters about firing Powell, after touring a Fed construction site. When asked why not just fire Powell now, Trump said: "I don't think we are going to do that." 

"I believe he is going to do the right thing," Trump added, referring to Powell leading the Fed to lower interest rates. "I believe the chairman is going to do the right thing. It may be a little too late, as the expression goes, but I believe he is going to do the right thing." (See: MNI INTERVIEW: FOMC To Go Own Way If Chair Lacks Credibility) 

The President said he has two, "maybe three" names under consideration as the next central bank leader, but he didn't disclose the potential candidates.