Five Democratic Senators, led by Elizabeth Warren, are demanding answers from US regulators over potential conflicts of interest tied to World Liberty Financial’s (WLFI) new stablecoin, USD1.
The crypto firm, backed by President Trump’s family, has raised concerns within the Senate Banking Committee. In a March 28 letter, they called on key officials, including Michelle Bowman of the Federal Reserve and Rodney Hood of the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, to outline their plans for regulating WLFI and its stablecoin.
Congress to Decide on Stablecoin Rules
The letter comes as Congress debates the GENIUS Act, a new bill aimed at regulating stablecoins. If passed, the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act would give the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) and the Federal Reserve the power to oversee stablecoin issuers like WLFI and its USD1 coin, marking a major shift in crypto regulation.
In February, Trump signed an executive order that mandates federal agencies, like the OCC, to regularly coordinate with the White House, giving the president greater control over federal decisions and policies.
“President Trump’s involvement in this venture, as he strips financial regulators of their independence and Congress simultaneously considers stablecoin legislation, presents an extraordinary conflict of interest that could create unprecedented risks to our financial system and to the integrity of decisions made by the [Fed and OCC],” the letter noted.
“The launch of a stablecoin directly tied to a sitting President who stands to benefit financially from the stablecoin’s success presents unprecedented risks to our financial system.”
Senators Raise Red Flags Over Trump’s Stablecoin Ties
Senators are questioning how regulators can effectively oversee WLFI, considering its close connections to the current president. At the same time, Congress is pushing for new laws to regulate stablecoins—digital currencies meant to work like the dollar for holding value or buying other crypto assets.
Launched in March 2025, WLFI’s USD1 stablecoin is seen as a direct competitor in the booming digital currency market. Available on major blockchains like Ethereum and BNB Chain, the project’s limited transparency has raised skepticism among critics.
Meet USD1 — the stablecoin your portfolio’s been waiting for.
Built for institutions and retail alike. Backed by dollars. Custodied by BitGo.
No games. No gimmicks. Just real stability.— WLFI (@worldlibertyfi) March 25, 2025
Since its September 2024 launch, WLFI has raised $550 million through two public token sales. The project has garnered attention due to its political ties, with Donald Trump Jr. promoting the stablecoin at the DC Blockchain Summit in March 2025. Notably, Trump and his family control 60% of WLFI, raising conflict of interest concerns.
