Crypto News: Binance, CZ Hire Ex-Trump SEC Pick Amid Legal Battles

Binance and CZ hired former SEC lawyer Teresa Goody Guillén. This move followed CZ’s pardon and high-profile lobbying.

Binance and its founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) recently bolstered their legal team. The two enlisted the help of a prominent crypto attorney, Theresa Goody Guillen, in February. Guillen was even a contender for the SEC chair position under Donald Trump. Already, her law firm has received $290,000 in fees. This is all from both the clients so far this year.

Key Lobbyists Secure High-Stakes Executive Pardon

Furthermore, on a recruit in Zhao’s orbit, Trump ally and lobbyist Ches McDowell. McDowell was hired to lobby the White House and the Treasury Department. The lobbyist was paid $450,000 for his work in the month of September alone. McDowell’s firm, Checkmate Government Relations, has been a high earner. This took place in the second Trump administration effectively.

Related Reading: Trump Pardons to Binance Founder Changpeng Zhao: WSJ | Live Bitcoin News

The lobbying firm generated a revenue haul of $7.1 million recently. This was accomplished in the last three months alone. Checkmate did not even have a Washington office until earlier this year. Binance hired McDowell in late September, in particular. His job was to lobby for financial policy and “executive relief.” This relief was for CZ now.

The pardon gave Zhao and Binance a new beginning in Washington. It is typical of Trump’s friendly attitude towards the crypto industry. This also indicates a more lenient approach to regulation in general. For the lobbyists, the pardon is a show of force. It represents the shifting power in K Street now.

The shift effectively advantages firms with direct ties to the Oval Office. McDowell is a hunting partner of Donald Trump Jr. A Photographer captured McDowell speaking to the President at the White House. This occurred at an event to honor a conservative activist. As such, the connections are obviously very strong.

Binance Secures Trump Pardon with Lobbying Support

President Trump pardoned CZ in October of 2025. This was after CZ was in prison. He was convicted in a case for violation of anti-money laundering laws. Critics saw the pardon as a reward for Binance’s support. The company contracted with McDowell to help them secure this pardon.

The pardon came on a marked change at the SEC. In December 2024, Trump appointed Paul Atkins as the new SEC Chair. Atkins is a known crypto supporter now. Following his appointment, the SEC had changed its policy significantly. The agency shifted from its enforcement-intensive approach. It also reduced several crypto investigations in general.

In May 2025, the SEC decided to drop its lawsuit against Binance voluntarily. The agency said that it was exercising its discretion. This move was termed a policy matter now. The lawsuit, which was filed in June 2023, made several allegations of violations. These included misusing customer funds and deceiving investors. The dismissal was a huge victory for Binance now.

Binance had previously pleaded guilty to federal violations. This settlement with the DOJ and the Treasury took place in November 2023. Overall, the exchange paid a $4.3 billion fine. CZ also pleaded guilty and resigned as CEO. He paid a $50 million fine and spent time in prison.

Ultimately, these high-profile legal and lobbying hires are strategic. They are a calculated attempt by Binance and CZ. It is to manage regulatory and political risk. This new approach of the Trump administration is proving effective. The company can now concentrate on worldwide expansion.