The White House is considering alternative candidates for CFTC chair as Brian Quintenz, a former CFTC commissioner, faces confirmation challenges.

The potential pivot comes amid lobbying efforts from industry figures, including the Winklevoss twins who co-founded cryptocurrency exchange Gemini, who have raised concerns about Quintenz’s nomination.

The CFTC has expanded its crypto oversight role significantly, with the agency proposing to regulate spot markets for digital assets like Bitcoin, which are classified as commodities rather than securities.

President Trump’s administration has emphasized appointing pro-cryptocurrency regulators to foster innovation in the digital assets sector.

Confirmation delays for CFTC chair nominees have occurred under previous administrations due to industry lobbying and partisan concerns, reflecting the agency’s critical role overseeing derivatives markets and its growing influence in cryptocurrency regulation.