Candidates for the Next Chair of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Under President-elect Donald Trump
Cryptocurrency journalist Eleanor Terrett has shared the latest buzz surrounding potential candidates for the next chair of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) under President-elect Donald Trump.
Key Financial Regulatory Roles in Focus
With the recent appointment of Scott Bessent as Treasury Secretary, attention has turned to other key financial regulatory roles, including the SEC, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), and the National Economic Council (NEC).
Front-Runner: Paul Atkins
Former SEC Commissioner Paul Atkins is currently seen as the frontrunner for the position, according to Terrett. Atkins, who served under President George W. Bush, has long been seen as an advocate for lighter regulations and could bring a crypto-friendly approach to the role.
Other Potential Candidates
Brad Bondi, a white-collar defense attorney at Paul Hastings and brother of Pam Bondi, Trump’s rumored pick for Attorney General, has also emerged as a strong candidate. Bondi’s close ties to Elon Musk, demonstrated through his representation of Tesla in the SEC’s lawsuit against Musk, make him a noteworthy contender.
Brian Brooks, who served as Acting Comptroller of the Currency during the Trump administration, is another strong candidate. Brooks has been vocal in his support for cryptocurrency and blockchain innovation. Sources indicate that Brooks has had discussions with officials regarding the SEC position.
Pro-Crypto Stance Among Candidates
One common theme among the potential candidates is their positive attitudes toward cryptocurrencies. A senior member of Trump’s transition team was quoted by Terrett as saying, “I promise you, he will be pro-crypto.” This indicates a potential shift towards a more crypto-friendly regulatory environment under the new administration.
*This is not investment advice.