Messari CEO Ryan Selkis Steps Down Amid Controversy
Amidst controversy surrounding his inflammatory remarks regarding immigration and Donald Trump, Messari CEO Ryan Selkis has decided to step down from his role at the crypto research company. The decision, announced on Friday morning, signifies a significant shift in leadership within the organization.
Transition to Senior Advisor Role
Selkis explained his decision in a statement, expressing that he will be transitioning to the role of Senior Advisor within the company. This move comes after careful consideration of the issues he is most passionate about addressing within society at large. Eric Turn, Messari’s Chief Revenue Officer, will be taking over the vacant CEO position.
Controversial Statements and Resignation
Selkis’ resignation follows a series of controversial statements he made online, particularly targeting individuals who do not support Donald Trump. His remarks, which came shortly after an assassination attempt on the Republican nominee, sparked outrage and led to calls for accountability.
- Selkis condemned individuals who oppose Trump, stating that they “can die in a fire” and declaring “literal war” against them.
- He also suggested that a “civil war for the country” had begun, further escalating tensions.
- In response to an immigrant, Selkis expressed anti-immigration sentiments, questioning their right to citizenship and advocating for their removal from the country.
Apology and Reflection
In light of the backlash, Selkis issued a formal apology for his behavior, acknowledging that he had “run too hot” in expressing his political views online. He expressed remorse for his actions and vowed to focus on addressing underlying societal issues rather than engaging in divisive rhetoric.
- Selkis highlighted his concern over the attempted assassination of President Trump and criticized the media and administration for their handling of the incident and failure to address the root causes of such violence.
- While known for his conservative political stance and advocacy against regulatory overreach by the SEC in the crypto space, the repercussions of Selkis’ discriminatory remarks remain uncertain.
Hot Take: Impact of Selkis’ Resignation
The resignation of Messari CEO Ryan Selkis amidst controversy over his inflammatory remarks underscores the importance of responsible leadership in the crypto industry. His transition to a Senior Advisor role signals a shift in the company’s direction and values, prompting reflection on the role of executives in shaping the public image of crypto organizations.