Trump Considers First-Ever White House Role for Cryptocurrency Policy

Washington, D.C. – In a groundbreaking move, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly exploring the creation of a dedicated White House post to oversee cryptocurrency policy. According to a report by Bloomberg on Nov. 20, Trump’s team is consulting industry leaders and vetting candidates for the proposed role, signaling the administration’s commitment to making the United States a global leader in crypto innovation.

The position, which would be the first crypto-specific role in the White House, may report directly to Trump. While it’s unclear whether the role will function as a staff position or as a “crypto czar” coordinating policy across federal agencies, advocates within the industry are urging for direct presidential oversight.

Trump’s Crypto Agenda

Trump gained significant support from the crypto community during his campaign by pledging to transform America into the “world’s crypto capital” and halt aggressive regulatory actions targeting the industry. His administration’s interest in a dedicated crypto post underscores the increasing prominence of digital assets in shaping economic policy.

The role is expected to lead a small team and act as a bridge between the White House, Congress, and federal agencies, including the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).

High-Profile Discussions

Bloomberg reported that key crypto executives, including Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong and former Coinbase executive Brian Brooks, met with Trump at his Mar-a-Lago residence on Nov. 19 to discuss the potential role and broader crypto policies.

In parallel, Trump’s transition team is reviewing candidates for the chairmanship of the CFTC, with a focus on individuals who have advocated for a more crypto-friendly regulatory approach. Republican CFTC Commissioner Summer Mersinger, known for her criticism of the agency’s enforcement actions against crypto firms, is reportedly a top contender.

Mersinger has previously opposed what she termed “regulation through enforcement,” advocating instead for a clearer and more accommodating stance on cryptocurrency.

Pro-Crypto Appointments

Trump’s administration is shaping up to be crypto-friendly. On Nov. 19, he selected Howard Lutnick, CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald and a vocal crypto advocate, as Secretary of Commerce.

The election outcome has already impacted the crypto market, with shares of Coinbase surging past $300 for the first time since 2021. Analysts attribute the rally to optimism that the Trump administration will ease regulatory pressure on the industry.

“With Trump’s administration expected to adopt a favorable stance toward cryptocurrencies, firms like Coinbase stand to benefit, particularly in areas such as staking, which have faced scrutiny under the SEC,” said Michale Miller, an equities researcher at Morningstar.

This potential new role could mark a pivotal moment for the U.S. crypto industry, with Trump’s administration laying the foundation for policies aimed at fostering innovation and investment in digital assets.