Ripple’s leadership has openly criticized the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for refusing to delay filing a brief in its ongoing appeal against the blockchain company. Despite the looming change in leadership at the SEC on January 20, the regulator is forging ahead with enforcement actions, stirring backlash from Ripple executives.

Ripple’s Chief Legal Officer Stuart Alderoty expressed frustration on X (formerly Twitter), calling the SEC’s persistence a “waste of time and taxpayer dollars.” He reaffirmed the company’s confidence in its appeal, hoping for a resolution under the incoming SEC leadership. This case stems from an August ruling where Ripple was found liable for $125 million for allegedly using XRP as an unregistered security to raise funds.

CEO Brad Garlinghouse echoed Alderoty’s sentiments, suggesting the SEC’s crypto enforcement approach might shift after Donald Trump’s inauguration as President. One of Trump’s campaign promises was to remove SEC Chair Gary Gensler, whose tenure has faced widespread criticism from the crypto community. Gensler is set to step down on January 20, paving the way for a potential change in the SEC’s stance.

Ripple’s legal battle, initiated in December 2020 during Trump’s first term, will now proceed to an appellate court. The SEC is challenging a federal ruling that XRP does not necessarily qualify as a security. However, Alderoty clarified that Ripple’s appeal would not contest this aspect of the decision.

The future of the SEC’s case remains uncertain as Trump has proposed former commissioner Paul Atkins for the role of SEC Chair, pending Senate approval. Meanwhile, Ripple’s political contributions reflect its commitment to pro-crypto advocacy, with $45 million donated to the Fairshake PAC in the 2024 election cycle and an additional $25 million pledged for 2026 midterms.

As the regulatory battle continues, the outcome could have significant implications for the broader crypto industry.