Paul Atkins Sworn In as SEC Chair

Following his narrow Senate confirmation by a 52-44 party-line vote on April 9, 2025, Paul Atkins, who previously served as a Republican commissioner from 2002 to 2008, was sworn in today as the next SEC chair, replacing current SEC Acting Chair Mark Uyeda. The SEC’s press release contains additional biographical data.

Atkins has long been an outspoken advocate for the need to reduce barriers to capital formation in both public and private capital markets. During his confirmation hearing, he contended that “the current regulatory environment for our financial system inhibits investment and too often punishes success. Unclear, overly politicized, complicated and burdensome regulations are stifling capital formation, while American investors are flooded with disclosures that do the opposite of helping them understand the true risks of an investment.” Under his chairmanship, Atkins pledged to “reset priorities and return common sense to the SEC,” “keep politics out of how our securities laws and regulations are applied” and “advance clear rules of the road that encourage investment in our economy to the benefit of all Americans.”

Following the vote, Senate Banking Committee Chair Tim Scott issued the following statement:

“Paul Atkins brings a wealth of experience and dedication to safeguarding our capital markets. His tenure will mark a pivotal moment to roll back harmful Biden-era policies, promote capital formation and enhance opportunities for retail investors. Chairman Atkins will also provide regulatory clarity for digital assets, allowing American innovation to flourish, and ensuring we remain competitive on the global stage. I look forward to collaborating with Chairman Atkins to reignite our capital markets, which are vital for economic growth, job creation and innovation.”

In a joint statement, current SEC Commissioners Uyeda, Peirce and Crenshaw welcomed Atkins back to the agency:

“A veteran of our Commission, we look forward to him joining with us, along with our dedicated staff, to fulfill our mission on behalf of the investing public.”

The SEC is currently operating without the full complement of five commissioners. Commissioner Crenshaw, the agency’s sole Democrat, is occupying an already expired term, while the other Democratic position on the Commission remains unfilled. The White House has not yet moved to fill either Democratic position.