Cryptocurrency CEO Resigns After Incendiary Remarks on Social Media

Prominent Cryptocurrency CEO Resigns After Incendiary Remarks on Social Media

Ryan Selkis, the CEO of Messari, a prominent crypto data company, has announced his resignation after posting controversial remarks on social media in the wake of an assassination attempt on Donald Trump. Selkis, who is known as “twobitidiot” on social media platform X, made comments that seemed to call for violence against non-Trump supporters following the attempt on the Republican presidential nominee’s life.

In a since-deleted post, Selkis wrote, “Anyone that votes against Trump at this point can die in a f—–g fire. Literal war.” He later added, “The Civil War for the country started today, and if you are anti-Trump you are against the men who are willing to fight. Good luck.”

Selkis cited his “politics and rhetoric” as the reason for his resignation, stating that they had put his team in harm’s way. He expressed disgust at the media and administration’s handling of the aftermath of the attack and their failure to address the divisive rhetoric that contributed to it.

His successor, Eric Turner, has not yet commented on Selkis’ resignation. The development comes at a time when there is a clear shift within the crypto world towards Trump, as he reciprocates the interest. Trump recently included crypto in his party’s platform, pledging to defend the right to mine Bitcoin and ensure self-custody of digital assets.

Selkis’ remarks may have been seen as inhibiting the mainstream acceptance of crypto, a key goal for the industry. Messari, founded by Selkis in 2018, has the backing of major financial institutions, including Point72 Ventures and Brevan Howard.

As the crypto world continues to advocate for a more accommodating regulatory environment, Selkis’ resignation marks a significant moment in the industry’s relationship with politics and public discourse.