Gary Gensler, the current Chair of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), is set to leave his position on January 20, 2025. In his final days, Gensler has defended his tenure, emphasizing the SEC's focus on investor protection within the $60 trillion U.S. equity markets. He has also shifted to a pro-prediction markets stance. Amidst his departure, the SEC has continued its legal battle against Ripple Labs, filing an appeal brief against a July 2023 ruling that favored Ripple in part. The appeal argues that retail sales of XRP should be classified as securities, despite a previous ruling that such sales did not violate securities laws. Ripple was fined $125 million in August 2024 for violating securities regulations while raising funds. Ripple's Chief Legal Officer, Stuart Alderoty, has criticized the appeal as a waste of time and taxpayer dollars, predicting that the lawsuit may be abandoned under the incoming Trump administration. Ripple has been proactive in changing the anti-crypto political climate, contributing $25 million to the Fairshake PAC in 2024. Amidst these developments, the XRP price has surged to $2.99, reflecting investor optimism. Paul Atkins, nominated to succeed Gensler, has been meeting with senators to discuss promoting financial innovation and clear crypto regulations. The transition at the SEC has sparked optimism among XRP investors and discussions about potential changes in crypto policy under new leadership.