Trump names Paul Atkins as Securities and Exchange Commission chairman
President-elect Donald Trump recently announced the nomination of Paul Atkins, a former commissioner of the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), to serve as the agency’s chairman. Atkins, who is currently the CEO and founder of Patomak Global Partners, a risk management consultancy, previously served as an SEC commissioner from 2002-2008 during President George W. Bush’s tenure.
The SEC is composed of five commissioners, with one designated as chairman by the President. All five commissioners are nominated by the President and require Senate approval for their appointments. Established in 1934 during the Great Depression, the SEC’s primary mission is to safeguard investors, promote fair and efficient markets, and facilitate capital formation.
In a statement shared on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump praised Atkins as a leader in promoting sensible regulations and fostering vibrant and responsive capital markets that benefit investors and drive economic growth. Trump also highlighted Atkins’ understanding of the importance of digital assets and other innovations in advancing the nation’s prosperity.
In addition to Atkins, Trump also made several other nominations, including Jared Isaacman as the next administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and Daniel P. Driscoll as the secretary of the Army. Both of these appointments will require Senate approval. Trump also appointed Peter Navarro as senior counselor for trade and manufacturing and David A. Warrington as Assistant to the President and Counsel to the President.
