Teresa Goody Guillén, a prominent blockchain attorney, is reportedly a top contender to lead the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) under President-elect Donald Trump. A decision on the SEC chair is anticipated before Thanksgiving.
Goody Guillén, a partner at BakerHostetler and co-leader of its blockchain practice, has extensive experience in securities law and blockchain advocacy. Trump’s transition team appears focused on selecting a pro-crypto candidate to replace the outgoing Chair, Gary Gensler, who is expected to step down before Trump’s January 20 inauguration. This move aligns with Trump’s commitment to reform the SEC, shifting away from a “regulation by enforcement” model toward more lenient crypto oversight.
A Potential Game-Changer
Goody Guillén previously worked in the SEC’s Office of the General Counsel (2009–2011) and later collaborated with former SEC Chair Harvey Pitt, advising on enforcement matters. Her combined expertise as a former SEC insider and blockchain advocate strengthens her candidacy for the chairmanship.
Support for Goody Guillén is strong within the crypto industry. Brendan Playford of Masa referred to her as a “game-changer” who could revamp the SEC’s approach to digital assets. Many believe her leadership would provide much-needed regulatory clarity and spur growth in the blockchain sector.
However, she faces competition from other notable candidates, such as Robert Stebbins of Willkie Farr & Gallagher, former SEC Commissioner Paul Atkins, Robinhood’s Chief Legal Officer Dan Gallagher, and Brian Brooks, a former Acting Comptroller of the Currency.
Led by Howard Lutnick, Trump’s transition team is expediting the selection process, emphasizing the importance of swift regulatory reforms.
If appointed, Goody Guillén’s leadership could signify a turning point in U.S. crypto regulation. Her expertise in securities law and blockchain technology positions her to create a balanced regulatory framework, potentially reshaping the SEC and the future of cryptocurrency in the United States.
