CFTC Leadership Shortage Threatens Crypto Regulation Amidst Johnson’s Departure

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is facing a critical leadership void after Commissioner Kristin Johnson, the sole Democratic member of the commission, announced her resignation on September 3, 2025. This departure leaves Acting Chair Caroline Pham as the only confirmed commissioner, jeopardizing regulatory efforts for crypto markets. Johnson’s decision to step down comes alongside other recent departures from the Biden administration-appointed commissioners, including Christy Goldsmith Romero and Summer Mersinger. These changes pose a significant challenge to the CFTC’s capacity to oversee the dynamic cryptocurrency landscape effectively. ]