Heritage Supports Paul Atkins Nomination for SEC Chair

Today, there’s excellent news supporting the nomination of Paul Atkins as the Chair of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the upcoming administration led by President-elect Donald Trump. This nomination has received a warm acknowledgment from The Heritage Foundation.

Derrick Morgan, Executive Vice President at Heritage, expressed his joy at Paul Atkins’ nomination, emphasizing that it’s a win for investors, workers, and all those invested in the American economy. Paul’s unique background, combining public service experience as an SEC Commissioner during President Bush’s tenure, along with his private sector track record in guiding major firms on SEC compliance, positions him well to lead. His wealth of knowledge and forward-thinking approach towards U.S. capital markets, including emerging areas like cryptocurrency, are key qualities that are expected to bring much-needed change and revitalization to the SEC.

David Burton, Senior Fellow in Economic Policy at Heritage, highlighted that Paul Atkins is predicted to become a strong advocate for common sense, small investors, and entrepreneurs in the SEC. Over the years, policies under Gary Gensler have posed challenges by imposing unnecessary rules, particularly in the areas of climate and ESG-related reporting. These rules have created compliance burdens for companies and investors alike, straying from the SEC’s core mission. With Atkins in a leadership role, the SEC has the potential to revoke detrimental regulations, creating a more favorable environment for small businesses aiming to raise capital and for digital asset and small public company sectors. American investors are expected to applaud President Trump for this progressive move.