Bo Hines, the executive director of the White House Crypto Council, has stepped down from his role in August 2025, concluding an eight-month tenure in a position created under President Donald Trump’s administration [1]. Hines was appointed in December 2024 to lead the council, tasked with advising on digital asset policy, regulation, and the development of a national Bitcoin strategy [2]. In a statement posted on X, Hines confirmed his exit, indicating a return to the private sector, though he will remain engaged as a special government employee to assist with AI initiatives under David Sacks, the White House’s AI and Crypto Czar [3].
Hines expressed gratitude to the digital asset community for its support and emphasized the importance of his role as a bridge between the White House, Capitol Hill, and the crypto industry [4]. During his brief tenure, he met with 150 industry leaders in the first three months and focused on strengthening relationships to foster a balanced regulatory environment [5]. His leadership was credited with advancing the U.S. position as a global crypto leader and contributing to a comprehensive policy framework, including the July release of a regulatory action plan for digital assets [6].
The White House has not yet announced a formal successor, but Patrick Witt, the council’s deputy director, is expected to assume the role. Witt also serves as the acting director of the Office of Strategic Capital within the Department of Defense. With prior experience in public administration, including a stint at the U.S. Office of Personnel Management and a failed run for Georgia Insurance Commissioner, Witt brings a background in strategic capital and government operations but has no known experience in the crypto industry [7]. His appointment signals a continuation of the administration’s pro-crypto stance, though observers note that his leadership style may differ from Hines’ relationship-driven approach.
Hines’ departure comes amid heightened interest in U.S. crypto policy, with the administration pursuing both regulatory clarity and a national Bitcoin reserve. Under Hines, the council supported President Trump’s executive order on Bitcoin acquisition and exploration of innovative reserve-building methods, such as revaluing U.S. gold holdings [8]. While the council received praise for its policy engagement, it faced criticism for falling short on some strategic initiatives, including the establishment of a Bitcoin reserve.
Despite his exit, Hines will remain involved in the administration, particularly in advising on AI-related projects, ensuring his continued influence over key policy directions. The transition underscores the evolving nature of U.S. crypto policy, with the White House maintaining a strong commitment to digital asset innovation and global competitiveness.
Source:
[1] Cointelegraph, https://cointelegraph.com/news/bo-hines-director-white-house-crypto-group-steps-down
[2] Blockonomi, https://blockonomi.com/just-in-bo-hines-exits-white-house-crypto-role-successor-named-amid-big-shift
