Trump Appoints Michael Selig as Chairman of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission
President Trump’s nomination of crypto advocate Michael Selig to lead the CFTC comes as Congress considers expanding the agency’s oversight of U.S. digital asset markets.
President Donald Trump has nominated Michael Selig, a pro-crypto lawyer and current SEC Senior Advisor, as chair of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Selig, serving as Chief Counsel for the SEC Crypto Task Force and formerly a partner specializing in cryptocurrency law, would replace prior nominee Brian Quintenz, who withdrew amid conflict of interest concerns. If confirmed by the Senate, Selig will lead the CFTC during a period of potential legislative change that could significantly expand its authority over crypto markets. Industry leaders, including Andreessen Horowitz’s Chris Dixon and Solana Institute President Kristin Smith, have praised Selig’s expertise and potential to foster a supportive regulatory environment for innovation.
- Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC): A U.S. federal agency responsible for regulating derivatives markets, including futures, options, and digital asset-based contracts.
- SEC Crypto Task Force: A specialized unit within the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission focusing on oversight and enforcement related to digital asset securities.