NOV 09, V7N-Scott Bessent and John Paulson, both prominent investors and supporters of Donald Trump's campaign, are emerging as leading contenders for the role of U.S. Treasury Secretary in Trump’s upcoming administration, according to sources close to the president-elect. Bessent met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago on Friday, with one insider describing the discussions as "very positive." Paulson, although not confirmed to have met with Trump, has long been considered a potential candidate by the president-elect.

The position of Treasury Secretary holds substantial sway over U.S. economic, regulatory, and international financial policy, and Wall Street is closely watching who Trump will appoint, given his strong stance on reshaping trade through tariffs and other economic measures. Bessent, a seasoned hedge fund manager and former Yale University lecturer, has been vocal in his support of Trump’s tariff policies. Paulson, a billionaire investor known for his advocacy for tax cuts and deregulation, has also been on Trump’s radar for the role, with the president-elect floating his name early in the campaign.

Other possible candidates for Treasury Secretary reportedly include Larry Kudlow, a FOX Business personality; Robert Lighthizer, Trump’s former U.S. Trade Representative; and Howard Lutnick, co-chair of Trump’s transition team. Corporate attorney Jay Clayton, former chair of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, is being considered for roles in the administration but is seen as less likely for Treasury. JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon has also been speculated for the role, though a source confirmed he has no plans to join Trump’s team.

According to betting odds on Polymarket, Bessent is currently the most likely candidate, followed by Paulson, with Kudlow and Clayton trailing behind. Trump's staffing announcements are expected to continue, following the recent appointment of Susie Wiles, one of his campaign managers, as White House Chief of Staff.

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