Blockchain Association Names CFTC Commissioner Summer Mersinger CEO

The Blockchain Association has appointed Summer Mersinger, a Commissioner at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), as its new Chief Executive Officer. This move comes as the crypto industry faces increasing regulatory scrutiny in Washington. Mersinger will assume her new role on June 2, following her departure from the CFTC, where she has been serving since 2022. Her last day at the agency will be May 30.

Mersinger brings over two decades of public policy experience to her new position. She has worked on Capitol Hill and in federal regulatory agencies, and has been a long-time advisor to Senator John Thune. Her extensive background makes her well-suited to navigate the complex regulatory landscape of the crypto industry.

The appointment comes at a critical juncture for U.S. crypto policy. Debates are intensifying over legislation to regulate stablecoins, decentralized finance, and centralized exchanges. As CEO, Mersinger will lead the Association’s efforts to advocate for clear, innovation-friendly digital asset regulations. Marta Belcher, President of the Association’s Board, expressed enthusiasm about Mersinger’s appointment, 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. Mersinger’s appointment is expected to strengthen the Association’s efforts in this regard, given her deep understanding of regulatory processes and her experience in public policy.