U.S. President Donald Trump has nominated Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz as Attorney General, signaling a potentially transformative shift in U.S. crypto policy. Gaetz, known for his advocacy of Bitcoin and vocal criticism of federal overreach, is expected to push for deregulation in the crypto space.
Trump praised Gaetz on Truth Social, calling him the candidate to “root out systemic corruption at DOJ,” sparking excitement among crypto supporters.
Source: X
Following the announcement, Bitcoin hit an all-time high of $93,477, as market optimism surged over Gaetz’s potential to foster a supportive regulatory climate. Gaetz’s nomination follows the 2024 election results, which saw pro-crypto Republicans secure majorities in both the House and Senate, potentially easing the confirmation process.
However, Gaetz’s nomination has not been without controversy. Skepticism emerged during a closed-door meeting of House Republicans, with some questioning his legal qualifications and combative style.
Known for his strong support of Bitcoin, Gaetz’s appointment indicates that a potential second Trump administration would likely prioritize a pro-crypto stance—despite the potential for increased tension within the Republican Party.
Additionally, Gaetz’s confirmation hearings are expected to revisit past legal issues, including a federal investigation into allegations of misconduct, which concluded without charges. Ethics inquiries surrounding the congressman were effectively paused when he stepped down from his House seat, ending ongoing probes.
For the crypto sector, Gaetz’s appointment could mean unprecedented regulatory reform, even as he faces a challenging path to Senate confirmation. Republican leaders advocate for swift approval, emphasizing Gaetz’s “reformist agenda” as a crucial step for the DOJ’s stance on crypto.
