Eric Tung, nominated by Trump to the Ninth Circuit, has a history of defending crypto firms against regulation. His appointment raises questions about future digital asset oversight and judicial influence in tech-focused jurisdictions.
President Donald Trump has nominated Eric Tung, a corporate lawyer known for representing prominent cryptocurrency firms, to serve as a judge on the US Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
This federal court covers key states including California and Washington, critical hubs for Silicon Valley and blockchain companies. Tung’s history of defending digital asset entities puts a spotlight on the potential impact his judicial role could have on crypto-related legal cases.
Tung, a partner at the law firm Jones Day since 2019, has acted for clients such as the Blockchain Association and investors involved with BitMEX’s parent company.
His involvement in significant crypto cases, including litigation against the US Treasury Department by Tornado Cash users, underscores his deep ties to blockchain legal challenges.
Concerns Rise Over Deregulatory Bias
The nomination has attracted criticism from watchdog groups warning that Tung’s past advocacy for reduced cryptocurrency regulation aligns with the broader deregulatory agenda of the Trump administration.
His legal efforts have included contesting the classification of stablecoins as securities and opposing regulations on immutable smart contracts. Critics argue this background might influence his judicial decisions towards easing regulatory oversight of digital assets.
The Trump administration has already reshaped leadership at the US Securities and Exchange Commission and is considering nominees for the Commodity Futures Trading Commission who favor relaxed crypto rules. Tung’s elevation to the bench could intensify these trends within the judiciary system.
Impact on Silicon Valley and Crypto Litigation
Serving on the Ninth Circuit, Tung would handle appeals for cases from major technology and blockchain companies headquartered in the region. The court has historically ruled on critical matters such as allegations of cryptocurrency price manipulation and shareholder lawsuits involving tech firms.
His confirmation could steer important precedent-setting decisions affecting how digital currencies and blockchain innovations are regulated in the US.
Tung’s nomination is under Senate Judiciary Committee review, with no fixed timeline for a confirmation vote.
As crypto businesses await regulatory clarity, his appointment highlights the intersection of law, technology, and policy in shaping the future of digital finance.
Stay updated on the latest cryptocurrency news on our homepage.
Explore more in Latest News Category.
Related reading:
Key Topics
Crypto New Live
admin@cryptonewslive.org
Trump Nominates Crypto Lawyer Eric Tung to Ninth Circuit
Eric Tung, known for representing major crypto firms, is nominated to the Ninth Circuit Court, raising questions on deregulatory bias in blockchain cases.