Mark Uyeda Emerges as Top Candidate for SEC Chair Under Trump
As Donald Trump prepares to take office as U.S. President in January 2025, speculation grows regarding the leadership of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Crypto lawyer Jake Chervinsky suggests that Mark Uyeda, an SEC commissioner critical of current Chair Gary Gensler’s policies, is a strong candidate for the position.
Uyeda, appointed as an SEC commissioner in June 2022, opposes Gensler's enforcement-heavy approach towards crypto, labeling it a “disaster for the whole industry” in October. His support among crypto advocates seeking a collaborative regulatory framework, combined with his experience, positions him favorably within the crypto community and among policy analysts.
Additionally, some speculate that Hester Peirce, known as "Crypto Mom," might also be a candidate. Appointed by Trump in 2018, Peirce has consistently challenged the SEC’s restrictive stance on cryptocurrency, advocating for innovation-friendly policies. However, Chervinsky assesses her chances as “very low,” suggesting she may prefer other opportunities given the demanding nature of the SEC Chair role.
Many anticipate that Trump's administration will focus on reducing regulatory pressure on the crypto industry. Chervinsky predicts an end to what he terms Biden's “regulation by enforcement” strategy, which has led to several enforcement actions against major crypto firms. Trump may seek new candidates who can support this agenda with fresh perspectives.
The future of SEC leadership remains uncertain, but the selected individual will significantly influence the relationship between the U.S. government and the cryptocurrency industry. Prioritizing the **ending of aggressive enforcement** and creating a balanced regulatory environment may be central to Trump’s SEC agenda, signaling a potential shift in U.S. crypto policy.