CFTC’s Christy Goldsmith Romero to Depart from Agency by Month’s End

Christy Goldsmith Romero, one of the four members of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, revealed on Friday that she will be leaving the agency at the end of the month.

Goldsmith Romero’s announcement follows that of Commissioner Summer Mersinger, who shared earlier this week her plan to resign on May 30 to assume the role of CEO at the Blockchain Association, a D.C.-based advocacy group for the cryptocurrency sector.

In her statement, Goldsmith Romero commented on the derivatives markets under the agency’s oversight, noting that they “have seen substantial growth while maintaining resilience and financial stability even during periods of market stress and turbulence” during her tenure.

She expressed gratitude to the members of the CFTC Technology Advisory Committee, which she oversaw, for their pioneering reports and public discussions regarding future financial matters. “Under my direction, TAC produced significant reports concerning Responsible AI in Financial Markets and Decentralized Finance, in addition to organizing discussions pertaining to AI, cybersecurity, blockchain, digital identity, and digital assets,” she stated.

Acting Chair Caroline Pham is also reportedly preparing to depart, as previously noted by sources. Pham has indicated she plans to leave after the Senate confirms former Commissioner Brian Quintenz, originally appointed by President Donald Trump, for the leadership role.

Goldsmith Romero had anticipated her exit from the CFTC in connection with Quintenz’s impending confirmation. Nonetheless, the Senate Agriculture Committee has yet to schedule a hearing for him. Following that session, a committee vote will be necessary before he can be confirmed by the full Senate and officially assume his position.

Goldsmith Romero’s exit on May 31 will reduce the CFTC to just two commissioners, a number that is expected to remain unchanged until Trump appoints up to three additional commissioners—two from the Republican party and one Democrat—to fill the vacant positions.