CFTC Commissioner Summer Mersinger Appointed CEO of Blockchain Association

Summer Mersinger, a Commissioner at the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), has been appointed as the new CEO of the Blockchain Association, a leading crypto industry advocacy group based in Washington, D.C. She will officially assume the role on June 2, following her departure from the CFTC on May 30. Mersinger brings over two decades of experience in public policy and regulation, including senior staff roles in both chambers of Congress and as a longtime advisor to Senate Majority Leader John Thune. Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for the crypto industry, as debates intensify over legislation to regulate stablecoins, decentralized finance, and centralized exchanges.

Mersinger's move to the Blockchain Association is seen as a strategic effort to bridge the gap between regulators and the crypto industry. During her tenure at the CFTC, she played a key role in shaping federal regulatory policy in the financial markets, including policies impacting digital assets. Her deep understanding of legislative and regulatory processes uniquely positions her to lead the Association in advocating for thoughtful, forward-looking digital asset policy. Marta Belcher, President of the Association’s Board, expressed confidence in Mersinger's leadership, stating, "She is the ideal leader for this moment."

Mersinger succeeds Kristin Smith, who has led the Blockchain Association since its inception. Under Smith's leadership, the organization grew from a single staffer to a major lobbying force with over 125 member companies. Sarah Milby, the Association’s Head of Policy, will serve as interim CEO after Smith steps down on May 16. The Blockchain Association remains committed to advocating for a regulatory framework that supports innovation while protecting consumers and maintaining U.S. competitiveness in the global digital economy.