Congressman Tom Emmer, a cryptocurrency advocate, has been named vice chair of the House Subcommittee on Digital Assets, Financial Technology, and Artificial Intelligence.
His appointment marks a crucial step for the US as it refines its approach to regulating and encouraging innovation in the crypto industry.
The announcement came as part of the 119th Congress subcommittee assignments from the House Financial Services Committee, led by Chairman French Hill.
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In a statement published on January 14, Hill emphasized the subcommittee’s mission to develop a balanced framework that supports innovation while safeguarding consumers and ensuring accountability for regulatory agencies.
On January 15, Emmer posted on X, expressing optimism about the potential for US leadership in digital assets under the new administration. He said:
With President Trump in the White House, and Gary Gensler confined to the waste bin of Washington, we have an excellent opportunity to ensure that the future of digital assets is guided by Americans, with American values.
Emmer has been a vocal critic of what he sees as excessive regulatory interference, particularly by federal agencies. He has often called out the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and its chair, Gary Gensler, for policies that hinder progress in the crypto industry.
As Emmer steps into his new role, Rostin Behnam will step down as the head of the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). When will he officially leave the CFTC? Read the full story.
