Regulation
SEC Commissioner Crenshaw faces re-election delay due to cryptocurrency debate
Anti-cryptocurrency SEC Commissioner Caroline Crenshaw faces delay in reappointment until after the 2024 US election.
The Democratic-led Senate Banking Committee is likely to approve his nomination. However, the Senate’s final vote will likely be delayed because there are few legislative days left and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has other important matters to attend to.
Uncertainty over renomination schedule
Fox Business reporter Eleanor Terret reported that the process for reappointing Crenshaw is uncertain due to potential changes in the Senate and the White House. A new administration could immediately appoint a new SEC chairman, which would affect Crenshaw’s position.
🚨NEW: Regarding the next steps for the reappointment of Caroline Crenshaw to the @SECGov —I’m told she’ll likely be “killed by committee,” meaning her nomination will get a “yes” vote from the Democratic-led Senate Banking Committee. But then it has to go to a full Senate vote, which…
— Eleanor Terrett (@EleanorTerrett) July 12, 2024
Crypto lawyer Mike Selig pointed out that a The new administration could remove current SEC Chairman Gary Gensler. of his power, even if he could remain commissioner.
Terret stressed that if Crenshaw is confirmed and Gensler stays, the SEC would retain a Democratic majority. Even if former President Donald Trump nominates Hester Pierce as chair, Democrats would still hold a 3-2 majority on the commission.
Beware: If Caroline is elected and Gary decides to stay, the Commission will retain a Democratic majority. Trump could promote Hester to the position of chairwoman (her term expires in 2025), but the Democrats would retain a 3-2 majority.
If Trump wins, he won’t be able to force Gary out,… https://t.co/9no4TPMOQJ
— Eleanor Terrett (@EleanorTerrett) July 12, 2024
In a recent discussion, Senator Bill Hagerty asked Crenshaw about his opposition to the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs earlier this year. Crenshaw stressed the need to assess the public interest in individual exchange-traded products (ETPs) and expressed concerns about the fraud on global spot markets.
Hagerty criticized Crenshaw’s position, calling it detrimental to an “important emerging technology.” He also accused her of using her position at the SEC to advance climate positions, which he said are beyond the agency’s remit.
Crenshaw is well known for her strong opposition to cryptocurrencies, particularly against spot Bitcoin ETFs earlier this year. Her views have made her a major hurdle for the cryptocurrency industry, even more so than SEC Chairman Gary Gensler. Critics say Crenshaw’s strict stance on cryptocurrency regulation is stifling the industry’s growth and innovation.
In response to anti-crypto sentiments within the SEC, advocacy group Stand With Crypto has actively promoted pro-crypto policies.
On July 10, the group organized Meetings were held on Capitol Hill, where cryptocurrency founders spoke with lawmakers to advocate for supportive legislation. Stand With Crypto highlighted the importance of these initiatives, especially in an election year when policy decisions are crucial.
The delay in Crenshaw’s nomination adds to the uncertainty about how cryptocurrencies will be regulated in the United States. The outcome of the 2024 election could have a significant impact on how the SEC handles digital assets. The crypto industry will be watching the political landscape closely to see how the SEC and regulation will evolve.
Impact on cryptocurrency regulation
The ongoing struggle between regulators and the rapidly developing cryptocurrency industry is highlighted by the potential change in SEC leadership and the delay of Crenshaw’s renomination.
The upcoming elections will have a significant impact on the future regulation of bitcoin in the United States and the SEC. These elections could determine the laws and the SEC’s approach to the booming cryptocurrency market.
The outcome will be crucial for everyone in the crypto community, as it could drastically change the way cryptocurrencies are regulated. This is a crucial time for the SEC and the crypto industry, and many are watching closely to see what happens next.