Senate Confirms Crypto-Linked Nominee Jonathan Gould to Head OCC

The U.S. Senate has confirmed Jonathan Gould, a former blockchain executive, as the next head of the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) in a narrow 50-45 vote. Gould's nomination now moves to President Donald TRUMP for final approval. His background includes roles as chief legal officer at Bitfury and senior positions at the OCC, signaling potential continuity in the agency's crypto-friendly stance.

Under Gould's leadership, the OCC is expected to maintain its progressive approach toward digital assets. Earlier this year, the agency issued guidance permitting national banks to trade cryptocurrencies—a move that paved the way for institutional involvement. Regulatory clarity for crypto has been steadily increasing across U.S. financial oversight bodies.

Notably, pro-crypto Senator Cynthia Lummis opposed Gould's nomination during a procedural vote, though her reasons remain unspecified. The confirmation underscores Washington's growing engagement with blockchain policy as the industry seeks mainstream legitimacy.