A Win for Crypto! Caroline Crenshaw’s SEC Term Ends

Caroline Crenshaw would not be returning as an SEC Commissioner. Her term officially ends in January, and the Senate Banking Committee has decided against re-nominating her. Known for her critical stance on cryptocurrency, Crenshaw often clashed with the industry, making her departure a win for crypto advocates.

With her exit and SEC Chair Gary Gensler’s upcoming resignation, there are exciting things ahead!

Crypto Industry Breathes a Sigh of Relief

Crypto supporters are welcoming Crenshaw’s departure. She was widely unpopular in the space due to her alignment with Gary Gensler’s strict regulatory approach. The crypto industry invested heavily in lobbying to prevent her renomination, and their efforts succeeded. Industry leaders not only funded campaigns opposing her but also backed candidates aligned with their goals.

Lobbying Efforts Paid Off

The crypto industry’s influence extended beyond campaign contributions. Crypto-friendly Republican senators worked hard to ensure Crenshaw wouldn’t remain in her role. Even Democratic lawmakers felt the pressure. Senator Sherrod Brown, a strong Crenshaw supporter, criticized the crypto industry’s lobbying as a “disgusting smear campaign.” However, these efforts proved too influential to ignore.

What Happens Now?

With Crenshaw leaving and Gensler stepping down in January, things are already shifting. President-elect Donald Trump’s administration is shaping up to be much more crypto-friendly. Paul Atkins, who’s known for his pro-crypto views, will take over as SEC Chair.

There’s also talk about who might replace Crenshaw. Names like Chris Brummer and TuongVy Le are being floated. Brummer, a blockchain expert, seems to have the strongest backing, but nothing is confirmed yet. If he’s chosen, it would send a clear message: the SEC might finally be ready to work with the crypto industry instead of fighting against it.

What’s Next

This feels like a turning point. For years, crypto companies have been calling for clearer regulations. Now, they might actually get them. Big names in the industry, like Tyler Winklevoss of Gemini, are already celebrating. He called Crenshaw’s departure “a roadblock removed” and emphasized the need for clear rules.

The U.S. has lagged behind other countries in embracing crypto. But with these changes, that could change fast. The next few months will be crucial in determining whether the U.S. will become a global leader in digital assets—or stay stuck in the past.