Senator Cynthia Lummis Slams DOJ For “Hyper-Aggressive” Crypto Stance On Self-Custody Wallets
Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) criticized the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) on Wednesday for its controversial stance on self-custody wallets after unlicensed money-transmitting charges were brought against crypto mixers Tornado Cash and Samourai Wallet.
“I am deeply troubled by the Department of Justice’s hyper-aggressive argument that non-custodial software can constitute a money transmission service,” Lummis Tweeted. “This stance contradicts existing Treasury guidance, common sense and violates the rule of law.”
I am deeply concerned by the Biden administration criminalizing core tenants of the Bitcoin network and decentralized finance.
My full statement. ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/M3CHcNTi3x
— Senator Cynthia Lummis (@SenLummis) May 1, 2024
The senator’s statement follows the DOJ’s arrest of Samourai Wallet founders Keonne Rodriguez and William Lonergan Hill on money laundering charges and operating an unlicensed money-transmitting business.
Just last week, the DOJ countered Tornado Cash developer Roman Storm’s attempt to dismiss several charges brought against him, including violating sanctions laws, through the development and operation of the crypto mixer.
The swift legal action against both companies has raised concerns for crypto community members as it could affect the legality of owning and holding digital asset wallets in general.
“Arguments against self-custody software threaten the fundamental property rights that are core to being an American,” the senator continued. “I will do everything I can to fight for your rights to hold your own keys and run your own node.”
The DOJ’s legal actions against Tornado Cash and Samourai Wallet signal the U.S. government’s willingness to treat crypto mixers as unlicensed money
