Public statements or SEC policy documents

Paul Atkins, Blockchain Advocate, Favored for SEC Chair by Trump Team

Nov 27, 2024, 05:02 PM

Paul Atkins, a former SEC commissioner known for his libertarian views and involvement in the blockchain and cryptocurrency sectors, has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Gary Gensler as the next chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). According to sources close to discussions at Mar-a-Lago, Atkins is favored by top members of President-elect Donald Trump's transition team. His odds of becoming the SEC chair are reported to be as high as 60% by Kalshi, a prediction market platform. Atkins has been interviewed by the transition team and is seen as a proponent of clear rules and disclosure standards that avoid dictating business practices or impeding the market. He has notably co-chaired the Token Alliance, advocating for blockchain technology. Other candidates such as Uyeda, Tarbert, and Stebbins have also been in contention, but Atkins' experience and stance on financial regulation make him a prominent choice.