New SEC Chair Paul Atkins Facing Confirmation Delays
- March 27 committee hearing scheduled to discuss Paul Atkins’ nomination as SEC chair
- Atkins selected by President Donald Trump in December
- Atkins previously served as an SEC Commissioner from 2002 to 2008
The confirmation process for Paul Atkins as the next US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) chair is facing delays due to paperwork submission issues.
Eleanor Mueller, Semafor’s Congress reporter, revealed that Senate Banking Chair Tim Scott is considering a March 27 committee hearing to discuss Trump’s nominee for the SEC chair. The delay is attributed to the White House not sending over Atkins’ paperwork.
Atkins, known for his pro-crypto stance, was chosen by President Trump to lead the SEC in December. His appointment is significant as Trump aims to reform the regulatory landscape for digital finance and provide clarity on cryptocurrency regulations.
The Senate banking committee is also planning a bipartisan meeting on March 21 to deliberate on Atkins’ nomination.
Financial Disclosure Challenges
A recent report from Semafor highlighted the delay in scheduling a confirmation hearing for Atkins due to missing paperwork, including financial disclosures. Atkins is married to Sarah Humphreys Atkins, whose family owns Tamko Building Products, a roofing shingles manufacturer generating $1.2 billion in revenue last year.
Despite the delays, Atkins’ early nomination has raised questions about the lengthy confirmation process. He previously served as an SEC Commissioner during the Bush administration.
While awaiting Atkins’ confirmation, Mark Uyeda is serving as the acting chair of the SEC. Uyeda established a crypto task force in January to develop a regulatory framework for the industry.
