Washington’s crypto playbook flipped on May 14 when Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Commissioner Summer Mersinger agreed to helm the Blockchain Association, leaving the regulator for the industry’s most influential trade group.
Summer Mersinger to Leave CFTC
According to a post published on the Blockchain Association’s official X account, Mersinger will leave her position at the federal regulator on May 30 and formally join the crypto trade group on June 2.
The Blockchain Association cited Mersinger’s “experience with the regulatory challenges facing the digital assets ecosystem” and her advocacy for a crypto framework “that balances consumer protection with technological innovation” as reasons for her selection.
“We are closer than ever to passing fit-for-purpose legislation that treats the digital asset industry as the technological marvel it is, supporting innovation in the sector while providing important consumer protections,” the Blockchain Association said.
“Summer joins at a vital juncture as we make the final push to ensure we turn positive momentum to lasting law,” the organization continued.
Blockchain Association CEO Kristin Smith Praises Replacement
Mersinger replaces longtime Blockchain Association CEO Kristin Smith as the latter continues her career as President of the Solana Policy Institute, beginning on May 19.
Smith praised Mersinger in a Wednesday morning X post, saying the Blockchain Association is in “excellent hands” with the regulator.
“At this pivotal moment for crypto in Washington, Summer is the perfect leader,” Smith said. “With 20+ years of experience across both chambers of Congress and the CFTC, she’ll play a key role in our industry’s future.”
Mersinger began her tenure at the CFTC in March 2022 under then-U.S. President Joe Biden, where she pushed for common-sense crypto regulation. Before her service at the agency, Mersinger worked under Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) for nearly two decades.
“It has been a privilege to work and serve at the CFTC in both the first and the current Trump Administrations, doing my part to assist in pursuing the President’s important policies,” Mersinger said in a May 14 farewell statement posted to the CFTC’s website.
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