David Miller Chosen to Head CFTC Enforcement While Crypto Role Increases

TLDR

• The CFTC appointed former federal prosecutor David Miller to lead its enforcement division as its crypto oversight role expands.
• Chair Michael Selig said Miller will focus on policing fraud, abuse, and manipulation while the agency increases staffing efforts.
• Miller stated he is honored to join the CFTC during what he described as a major period of change for digital asset regulation.
• Lawmakers continued advancing bills that could broaden CFTC authority over crypto markets and related platforms.
• Recent reports raised concerns about enforcement staffing at both the CFTC and the SEC after reductions in crypto cases.

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) advanced its enforcement plans on Monday as Chair Michael Selig appointed David Miller to lead the division. The move came as the agency expanded its oversight of digital assets and prediction markets. The appointment followed rising questions about enforcement capacity across federal market regulators.

CFTC Enforcement Leadership Shift

The agency named Miller after he handled complex digital asset matters in both government and private practice. The CFTC said his background supports its effort to direct more resources toward market oversight.

Selig stated that Miller brings “decades of experience” that will guide work on fraud, abuse, and manipulation cases. He added that Miller’s approach will reflect a focus on policing markets rather than shaping policy.

Miller said he was “honored and thrilled” to join the agency during what he called a major moment. He also said he appreciated the trust placed in him by Selig.

Crypto Oversight and Agency Staffing

Lawmakers continued to work on bills that could expand CFTC jurisdiction over crypto markets. These proposals would broaden federal roles and create clearer oversight rules. The industry watched staffing levels closely as both the CFTC and Securities and Exchange Commission restructured their enforcement teams. Reports said the CFTC’s Chicago office recently operated without enforcement attorneys after several departures.

Selig addressed those concerns and said the agency has enough resources to handle its caseload. He also said the CFTC will keep adding personnel to strengthen supervision.

At the SEC, Chair Paul Atkins faced questions about reduced enforcement activity. Lawmakers asked about the drop in digital asset cases and demanded clarity.

Enforcement Trends Across Federal Regulators

Cornerstone Research reported a 30% drop in SEC enforcement actions during 2025. Its data also showed a 60% decrease in crypto cases year over year. Atkins responded by saying the agency maintains a “robust enforcement effort” across its portfolio. He said the agency continues to follow existing rules.

Miller previously served at Greenberg Traurig and Morgan Lewis as a litigation partner. He focused on commodities, securities, digital assets, and national security. He also worked for nearly a decade as an assistant U.S. attorney in the Southern District of New York. The CFTC said this experience strengthens its enforcement program.

Selig said Miller has a proven record of defending market participants from aggressive legal theories. He also said the appointment strengthens the division during rapid industry change. Miller will direct the agency’s enforcement priorities as regulators refine their approach to digital assets. His work begins as both federal regulators assess evolving market conditions.

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