Senators from the three governing party joined all Democrats in opposition to Shelton, drawing severe criticism for defending for a return to unconventional economic positions, such as the gold standard. However, one of these lawmakers, Lamar Alexander, retired and was replaced by a Trump aide.
Thus, economists’ confirmation will depend on the second-round result in Georgia, which will define the Senate’s command Tuesday night. If the Democratic Party wins at least one seat, it is unlikely to get the necessary votes.
Shelton was nominated for the position in 2019, but faced resistance due to critical statements from the Fed. In August last year, a group of 130 economists, including seven Nobel laureates, sent a letter to Congress recommending Shelton’s rejection. And calls her opinion “extreme and careless”.
