Blockchain Association Leader Exits Amid Stalled Crypto Policy Push

Summer Mersinger, a former U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) commissioner, is stepping down as CEO of the Blockchain Association at the end of October.

Mersinger's tenure emphasized stablecoin-focused policy efforts, including the GENIUS Act, and efforts to improve regulatory clarity across the SEC and CFTC.

The change comes after one of the organization's top legislative priorities, the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, stalled in Congress. The bill failed to gain enough votes during a cloture motion earlier this month, which could delay its passage until 2027.

Kristin Smith, who previously led the Blockchain Association, will return as interim CEO on October 16, when Mersinger steps down.