Adam Roarty is a journalist covering sports betting, regulation, and industry innovation for CasinoBeats. His coverage includes tax increases in the UK, covering breaking stories in the ever-evolving landscape of US betting such as the...
Read Full BioBrian Quintenz has been removed as the White House nominee to lead the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).
Quintenz confirmed that he was no longer in the running for the appointment as chair. He said to Politico, “Being nominated to chair the CFTC and going through the confirmation process was the honor of my life.”
“I am grateful to the President for that opportunity and to the Senate Agriculture Committee for its consideration. I look forward to returning to my private sector endeavors during this exciting time for innovation in our country.”
His private sector endeavors include serving as a board member of Kalshi. Quintenz had said he intended to step down if appointed as CFTC chair, but the possible conflict of interest led to many questioning his selection.
Strong Opposition Damages Quintenz
Donald Trump nominated the former CFTC Commissioner to lead the organization after assuming office in January. However, his appointment was delayed amid growing criticism. Quintenz put the delay down to the Winklevoss twins, who urged Trump to reconsider his nominee.
Tyler Winklevoss claimed he was not committed to Trump’s vision of making America the crypto capital of the world. Quintenz offered his support to the President, but a public spat on X may not have helped his cause.
A White House spokesperson confirmed Quintenz was no longer in the running, stating, “Brian Quintenz remains a trusted ally and the Trump administration looks forward to working with him in other capacities.”
In a reference to the Winklevoss’ worries, they added, “President Trump has made it a priority to make America the crypto capital of the world, and in doing so has called for the revitalization of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to play a larger role in securing this promise.”
Who Will Lead the CFTC Now?
It emerged last month that the White House was considering other candidates. Possible nominees include:
- Josh Sterling, a former CFTC official who is now a partner at the law firm Milbank
- Jill Sommers, former CFTC Commissioner
- Tyler Williams, the digital asset advisor to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent
- Mike Selig, the chief counsel for the Securities and Exchange Commission’s crypto task force
The conflict of interest concerns around Quintenz may also apply to Sterling, as his law firm, Milbank, has represented Kalshi in its court battles.
A White House official said they would be announcing a new nominee “in the near future.” However, the federal shutdown is likely to delay any appointment that requires Senate confirmation.
