Former SEC official: Gary Gensler is trying to manipulate SEC enforcement after leaving office

John Reed Stark, the former head of the U.S. SEC's Office of Internet Enforcement, has accused Gary Gensler of promoting five senior officers in the SEC's enforcement division to ensure influence after he leaves office, four of whom have extensive experience in crypto enforcement. He called the moves unprecedented, noting that such promotions typically last a decade, not a month. Stark explained that these are career civil service positions, which means the new administration cannot easily eliminate them.
"SEC chairperson Gary Gensler is clearly trying to manipulate SEC enforcement after he leaves office," Mr. Stark said, adding that the promotions were made quietly and without public announcements or press releases.