Tyler Winklevoss Joins Coinbase in Rejecting Law Firms Hiring Ex-SEC Officials

Tyler Winklevoss, a co-founder of Gemini, established a new policy that aligns with Coinbase and cuts off connections with companies that hire former SEC officials who are reportedly participating in measures against the cryptocurrency business. The action is a reflection of the crypto community’s mounting annoyance with what they see as excessive regulation.

Winklevoss Echoes Armstrong’s Stance

In a November 5 post on X, Winklevoss reinforced Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong’s position. Armstrong had criticized law firms and industry players for employing ex-SEC officials tied to what he called anti-crypto policies. Winklevoss went a step further, requesting a “running list” of such individuals and pledging Gemini would adopt a similar approach.

Coinbase recently cut ties with global law firm Milbank after it hired Gurbir Grewal, the SEC’s former Director of Enforcement. Grewal, a central figure in over 100 enforcement actions, stepped down shortly before the SEC’s appeal in its high-profile case against Ripple. This resignation raised speculation about internal discord within the regulatory agency.

Critics across the crypto space have scrutinized the SEC’s actions, particularly its appeal against Ripple. Attorney Jeremy Hogan argued the appeal could weaken the SEC’s influence if it failed. Armstrong has also been vocal, accusing the SEC of attempting to stifle crypto innovation through ambiguous regulations and aggressive enforcement.

Armstrong emphasized that while he doesn’t advocate for “canceling people permanently,” he believes those complicit in the SEC’s controversial tactics should not benefit from the industry they sought to regulate. Winklevoss shares this sentiment, positioning Gemini alongside Coinbase in a broader industry pushback.

This policy marks a significant shift in how crypto firms engage with legal and advisory entities, highlighting the community’s determination to protect innovation from regulatory hurdles.