Tether’s Wall Street Ally Howard Lutnick: Donald Trump’s Top Pick for Commerce Role

Key Takeaways

• President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Howard Lutnick as Secretary of Commerce.
• Lutnick, initially eyeing the Treasury Secretary role, brings strong pro-crypto credentials to the table.
• Trump’s nominations include a lineup of pro-crypto individuals for key government positions.

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Howard Lutnick , the CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald and a prominent Wall Street figure, as the next U.S. Secretary of Commerce.

Lutnick’s deep ties to the crypto world, particularly through Cantor Fitzgerald’s involvement with Tether’s USDT reserves, highlight Trump’s continued push to install pro-crypto individuals in pivotal government roles.

From Treasury Aspirations to Commerce Nomination

Lutnick’s appointment comes as a surprise twist. The Wall Street mogul was reportedly vying for the Treasury Secretary position, a more influential role in shaping the nation’s economic policies.

According to The New York Times,  Lutnick aggressively lobbied for the role. He even received an endorsement from SpaceX CEO Elon Musk.

However, Trump ultimately opted for another Wall Street heavyweight, Scott Bessent, for the Treasury position.

Despite missing out on his first choice, Lutnick has secured a significant spot in the administration as the Commerce Secretary, pending Senate approval.

Crypto Advocate in a Key Role

Lutnick’s new role involves overseeing vital functions such as managing the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, conducting the census, and supervising international trade and tariffs.

While less directly involved in financial policy than the Treasury Secretary, the Commerce Secretary wields substantial influence on trade and innovation, both critical for crypto adoption.

Lutnick has been an outspoken advocate for Bitcoin , championing its potential both personally and through Cantor Fitzgerald.

His appointment could pave the way for crypto-friendly policies within the Department of Commerce, fostering innovation and regulatory clarity.

Trump’s Pro-Crypto Team Takes Shape

Lutnick’s nomination is part of a broader trend in Trump’s transition strategy.

Since his victory earlier this month, Trump has consistently appointed individuals with pro-crypto leanings to key government roles.

Notable appointments include pro-Bitcoin Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Elon Musk as head of the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

Trump is set to meet Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong to discuss key roles. 

Media speculation suggests crypto attorney Teresa Goody Guillén is another top contender for the SEC position due to her crypto expertise and prior experience with the commission.

Other rumored candidates include current SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce and former Binance US CEO Brian Brooks. A common thread among all potential nominees is their advocacy for crypto and blockchain technology.

A Crypto-Friendly Administration in the Making

With Lutnick at Commerce and other pro-crypto figures in top roles, Trump’s administration appears poised to embrace policies that could shape the future of crypto in the United States.

As the transition continues, the industry is watching closely, hopeful that these appointments will lead to greater regulatory clarity and support.

Trump’s nomination spree signals a clear direction—crypto and blockchain technology are set to take center stage in America’s economic and technological strategy.