SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce has submitted her official resignation, which will take effect on October 2. Peirce has served on the commission for about eight years.

Peirce Led the Crypto Task Force Since February 4, 2025

Since February 4, 2025, Peirce has also served as director of the Crypto Task Force. Her official term at the SEC ended in June 2025, but commissioners may continue to serve for up to 18 months after their term expires if a replacement has not been appointed.

Resignation Letter and Commission Composition

Peirce published a copy of her resignation letter on Friday. In the letter, she thanked the president for the opportunity to serve as commissioner and noted that she is leaving under the leadership of Chair Paul Atkins and Commissioner Mark Uyeda—the two remaining members of the commission, both Republicans.

Commissioner Seat May Remain Vacant

Peirce's seat may not be filled immediately. Previously, Democratic Commissioner Caroline Crenshaw left the agency in January, 18 months after her term ended, and President Donald Trump has not yet nominated a replacement for that position.

SEC Adjusts Approach to Crypto Regulation

Since January 2025, the agency has significantly changed its approach to regulation and enforcement in the crypto industry, ending a number of proceedings and investigations involving crypto companies, including those connected to Donald Trump and his family. The Crypto Task Force is examining the application of existing securities laws to digital assets and decentralized systems. In June, Peirce stated that the publication of open-source code should not automatically subject developers to federal securities regulation, aligning with the SEC's move away from "regulation by enforcement," as described by Atkins.

Transition to Regent University School of Law in November

In November, Peirce plans to join Regent University School of Law in Virginia as an associate professor. She is expected to help strengthen the academic focus on federal litigation, securities regulation, and digital assets.