Donald Trump has appointed Bo Hines, a former college football player and ex-Republican House candidate, as the Executive Director of his incoming administration’s new “Crypto Council.”
Hines will report to David Sacks, Trump’s crypto and AI czar, and work to “foster innovation and growth” in digital assets. Trump announced the decision on December 23 through a post on Truth Social.
Hines’ age is 29, and he has limited public experience in cryptocurrency. He previously ran for the US House in North Carolina but lost in 2022 to Democrat Wiley Nickel. Hines also ran again in 2024 but placed fourth in the primaries. Despite his lack of crypto-specific experience, Hines received support from pro-crypto political action committees (PACs) during his campaigns.
Notably, former FTX CEO Ryan Salame, who is serving a seven-year prison sentence, contributed $13.4 million to Republican candidates, including Hines, before the company’s collapse.
Why Bo Hines?
Trump’s decision to appoint Hines has raised questions. Hines lacks direct experience in the crypto industry but is seen as a loyal Trump supporter. His appointment shows Trump’s effort to reward allies and surround himself with pro-crypto voices.
Trump has promised to make the US a global leader in cryptocurrency. During his presidential campaign, his pro-crypto identity helped him secure funding from major industry figures.
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Trump Made Other Pro-Crypto Appointments As Well
In addition to Hines, Trump appointed Sriram Krishnan, a former Andreessen Horowitz partner who left the venture capital firm in November, as senior AI policy adviser. Krishnan will also work under David Sacks.
Trump has made several other pro-crypto appointments, including nominating Paul Atkins, a former SEC Commissioner, to lead the agency. This move is seen as an effort to ease regulatory pressure on the crypto industry.
Bo Hines expressed gratitude for the appointment, posting on social media, “Thank you, Mr. President! I’m thrilled to work alongside David Sacks to ensure this industry thrives and remains a cornerstone of our nation’s technological advancement.”
