Ripple CEO Applauds New US “Crypto Czar” David Sacks for Pro-Innovation Role  

• Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse applauds David Sacks’ appointment as the White House’s leader for AI and cryptocurrency policy.  
• Sacks, a tech leader with Elon Musk ties, will oversee AI development and crypto regulation in the U.S.  
• Paul Atkins replaces Gary Gensler as SEC chair, signaling potential shifts in crypto oversight.  

Brad Garlinghouse, Ripple’s chief executive, has shared his enthusiastic support for David Sacks, recently named the White House’s “AI and crypto czar.” Sacks will oversee the U.S. government’s approach to artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency development. Known for his deep ties to the tech sector, Sacks has taken on this critical role amidst a growing regulatory focus on emerging technologies. 

Strong Tech Background in Leadership  

Sacks, a former PayPal executive and venture capitalist, has a reputation for driving innovation. His appointment is expected to strengthen the White House’s pro-innovation agenda for AI and cryptocurrency. Moreover, Sacks’ relationship with Elon Musk cemented during Musk’s acquisition of Twitter positions him as a prominent figure in shaping policy. His leadership extends to heading the U.S. President’s Council of Advisors for Science and Technology, which is central to policy decisions for these key sectors.  

Ripple CEO’s Support for Pro-Innovation Vision  

Garlinghouse publicly expressed his congratulations on social media, emphasizing Sacks’ technical expertise and vision for advancing innovation. He described the appointment as forming a “dream team” for promoting technological progress in the U.S. This endorsement aligns with Ripple’s ongoing efforts to encourage clearer regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrency, an area that has faced significant challenges under previous leadership.  

In a related announcement, Paul Atkins has been named the new chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), succeeding Gary Gensler, who resigned in November. Gensler faced criticism from the crypto industry for his regulatory stance, which was often perceived as adversarial. Garlinghouse welcomed Atkins’ appointment, describing him as an “outstanding choice” to lead the agency.  

Collaboration in Emerging Tech  

Sacks’ appointment comes as AI and cryptocurrency continue to dominate discussions in the tech and financial industries. Besides, his collaboration with Musk, who heads AI and operates the chatbot Grok on X, suggests potential synergies in shaping innovation-friendly policies. Additionally, Musk’s involvement in the Department of Government Efficiency (D.O.G.E.) underscores the administration’s commitment to integrating private-sector expertise into public initiatives.