The future of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) seems uncertain following the withdrawal of Brian Quintenz’s nomination due to a lack of progress amidst an ongoing government shutdown.

On Tuesday, Quintenz, previously a commissioner and currently head of policy for the crypto division at Andreessen Horowitz, confirmed his nomination had been retracted more than seven months post-announcement. This development appears to stem from pressure exerted by Gemini co-founders Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, who are known supporters of President Donald Trump.

Despite delays in the Senate concerning Quintenz’s confirmation and the Winklevosses’ resistance, numerous advocacy groups in crypto and blockchain circles had been lobbying for Trump to maintain Quintenz’s candidacy.

CFTC’s Leadership Landscape Facing Challenges
Since the departure of Commissioner Kristin Johnson on September 3, Caroline Pham has been serving as the acting chair of the CFTC. Pham previously indicated plans to transition to the private sector following the Senate’s confirmation of a new permanent chair.

During a recent statement, former CFTC commissioner and Blockchain Association CEO Summer Mersinger expressed confidence that the agency’s staff could effectively navigate challenges even amidst resource constraints.

In light of potential nominees to succeed Quintenz, names in contention include: Michael Selig, Tyler Williams, Jill Sommers, Kyle Hauptman, and Josh Stirling.

As of now, there has yet to be an official appointment to fill this crucial leadership role, as the U.S. government remains locked in a shutdown condition that began at midnight on Tuesday.