Nikolas Sargeant
Coinbase has appointed three new members to its board of directors, growing from seven to ten. The additions come as the exchange prepares for potential regulatory improvements following the November elections.
The new board members are:
- Chris Lehane: OpenAI executive team member and former Clinton White House aide
- Paul Clement: Ex-U.S. Solicitor General under President George W. Bush
- Christa Davies: Chief Financial Officer at Aon
Lehane will serve as strategic counsel, emphasizing the need for bipartisanship in crypto. Clement will advise on regulatory issues, particularly in challenging SEC overreach. Davies will focus on global financial and operational excellence.
The move strengthens Coinbase's bipartisan credentials amid increasing political interest in crypto. Lehane noted ongoing collaborative efforts between Democratic and Republican senators on crypto legislation.
Paul Grewal, Coinbase's Chief Legal Officer, praised Lehane as "one of the foremost political and legal strategists of our time," highlighting his role in shaping crypto's political significance across party lines.
Lehane's Long-Standing Relationship with Coinbase
Lehane revealed he has been in discussions with Coinbase's leadership for years, advising on trust-building and maintaining a bipartisan approach. He emphasized the potential for digital assets to support various economic philosophies, from libertarian to opportunity-focused perspectives.
The appointments reflect Coinbase's strategy to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape and engage with government stakeholders to promote pro-crypto policies.
