Yigit Taha OZTURK 
Ripple Labs Chief Legal Officer Stuart Alderoty stated that the next U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) chair, once confirmed by the Senate, could potentially withdraw lawsuits against crypto firms.
Current Status of the Ripple and SEC Case
On January 28, 2025, during an X Spaces broadcast for XRP Community Day 2025, Alderoty expressed optimism that if Paul Atkins becomes SEC chair, lawsuits based solely on registration violations and not involving fraud could be dismissed.
Ripple has been entangled in a legal battle with SEC since December 2020. In 2024, a ruling found Ripple liable for over $125 million in penalties. However, both SEC and Ripple have appealed the decision, prolonging the legal process.
Alderoty acknowledged that this process would take time but remained hopeful that the case could be voluntarily withdrawn in 2025.
A Favorable Crypto Environment Under Trump
Ripple believes that under former U.S. President Donald Trump, the crypto industry could benefit from pro-crypto policies. Alderoty highlighted Trump’s administration establishing a working group for digital asset regulations and the SEC launching a crypto task force as positive steps.
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Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse had previously stated that 75% of the company’s job openings would be based in the U.S. following Trump’s election.
However, it remains uncertain whether Paul Atkins will be confirmed as SEC chair. The Senate’s decision will be crucial for Trump’s pro-crypto legislative and regulatory initiatives.
Ripple’s Close Ties With Trump
The Ripple leadership team’s close relationship with Donald Trump has drawn attention. Stuart Alderoty and Brad Garlinghouse had a private dinner with Trump at Mar-a-Lago and attended his inauguration ceremony in Washington, D.C., as official guests.
Furthermore, Alderoty personally contributed over $300,000 to Trump-supporting political campaigns, while Ripple donated $5 million worth of XRP to Trump’s presidential inauguration fund.
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