SEC Appoints Kevin Muhlendorf as New Inspector General

Kevin Muhlendorf, a former attorney with the U.S. Department of Justice, has been appointed as the new Inspector General of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This appointment, effective from July 28, was announced in a press release by the federal regulator on June 23. Muhlendorf, who previously served as Senior Counsel for the SEC from 2004 to 2010, brings extensive regulatory experience to the role, having spent the last nine years working on securities-focused cases for Wiley Rein LLP in Washington, D.C.

SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins praised Muhlendorf's credentials, stating that his background in internal investigations, compliance programs, and law enforcement makes him an ideal candidate for the position. Atkins highlighted Muhlendorf's reputation for fairness and objectivity, noting that his appointment will ensure the SEC's operations are transparent, efficient, and effective. Muhlendorf expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to re-enter government service and contribute to the SEC's investor protection mission with efficiency and integrity.

Muhlendorf's appointment comes at a pivotal time for the SEC, following the resignation of former Chair Gary Gensler amidst U.S. President Donald Trump's return to the Oval Office. Trump's campaign for a crypto-friendly regulatory regime contrasts sharply with Gensler's approach to digital assets, which was characterized by regulation through enforcement. The SEC has since established the Crypto Task Force to clarify regulatory lines, distinguish securities from non-securities, and provide tailored disclosure frameworks for crypto assets and market intermediaries. The task force aims to ensure that investors have the necessary information to make informed decisions and that enforcement resources are deployed judiciously.