Washington’s top crypto lobbying organizations are rallying behind Brian Quintenz as the next chair of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), urging President Donald Trump to move quickly on his confirmation.
In a joint letter sent Wednesday, the Crypto Council for Innovation, Blockchain Association, DeFi Education Fund, The Digital Chamber, and the Solana Policy Institute, among others, argued that Quintenz is the right choice to lead the CFTC at a pivotal moment for digital asset regulation.
🚨SCOOP: @CFTC nominee @BrianQuintenz has been reaching out to members of the crypto industry for meetings as his nomination remains in limbo, according to three people familiar with the matter. The outreach comes as the White House has stayed silent since pausing his…
— Eleanor Terrett (@EleanorTerrett) August 20, 2025
“Installing a permanent Chairman to the CFTC is absolutely critical to realizing these goals with rules, guidance, and interagency collaboration that will prove durable and able to stand the test of time to ensure a golden age of crypto innovation,” the groups wrote. “He is, quite simply, the right person at the right time to lead the CFTC.”
A Divisive Nomination
Quintenz’s nomination has faced setbacks, with Senate Agriculture Committee votes canceled twice last month—the latest reportedly at the White House’s request. Critics, including Gemini founders Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, have raised concerns over his regulatory approach. Tyler Winklevoss recently said that “many in the crypto industry have serious concerns with his nomination.”
Still, industry groups backing Quintenz emphasized his credentials and track record. They cited his previous term as a CFTC commissioner during Trump’s first administration, his support for protecting software developers building peer-to-peer systems, and his balanced view of both the opportunities and risks in digital assets.
Lydia Moynihan
“With a clear-eyed view of the immense potential of this technology and the risks posed by bad actors, Mr. Quintenz is uniquely prepared to lead the CFTC in establishing fair, transparent, and trusted markets that will safeguard America’s leadership in digital assets,” the letter stated.
Why the CFTC Matters Now
The CFTC is expected to play a central role in shaping U.S. crypto regulation as lawmakers draft legislation that could give the agency broader authority over the industry. Advocates argue that having steady leadership is essential as digital asset policy moves from debate to action.
Quintenz has long been seen as one of the more crypto savvy regulators, so his nomination matters. Industry support shows how badly the space wants leaders who understand innovation instead of just policing it. His confirmation could set the tone for friendlier oversight.
— The External Range Trader (@official_Ert) August 20, 2025
If confirmed, Quintenz would step into the role amid a major leadership shakeup, with four other commissioners recently resigning or announcing plans to depart. His appointment could provide stability at a time when regulatory clarity is seen as vital for both industry participants and consumers.
