Christy Goldsmith Romero, a US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) commissioner, is set to resign on May 31, creating three vacancies at the regulatory body. Romero announced her departure on May 16, ahead of her reported plans to step down if former commissioner Brian Quintenz was confirmed as the new chair. Her exit will follow Commissioner Summer Mersinger’s expected resignation to become the CEO of the Blockchain Association. Romero expressed gratitude for her 23 years of federal service at the agency. With Romero and Mersinger leaving, the CFTC will have only two Senate-confirmed members: acting chair Caroline Pham and Commissioner Kristin Johnson. Pham also disclosed her intention to leave post Quintenz’s confirmation, potentially allowing President Trump to appoint three new commissioners. If Quintenz, likely for a Republican seat, gets confirmed, Trump could significantly alter the commission’s leadership by selecting four out of the five members. This change comes as lawmakers in the House consider draft legislation to define a regulatory framework for digital assets, clarifying the CFTC and Securities and Exchange Commission’s roles on cryptocurrencies. During her tenure, Romero helped establish the CFTC’s Technology Advisory Committee in response to industry concerns. She also supported US authorities’ joint action against Binance, resulting in a $2.7 billion settlement with the CFTC. The upcoming changes in leadership signal a crucial moment for the CFTC amid evolving crypto regulations and the need for clarity in oversight responsibilities.
Posted in
JUST IN
