Jay Clayton facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jay Clayton
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| 32nd Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission | |
| In office May 4, 2017 – December 23, 2020 |
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| President | Donald Trump |
| Preceded by | Mary Jo White |
| Succeeded by | Gary Gensler (nominee) |
| Personal details | |
| Spouse | Gretchen |
| Education | University of Pennsylvania (B.S.Eng., J.D.) University of Cambridge (B.A., M.A.) |
Walter J. "Jay" Clayton III is an American lawyer. He was the 32nd Chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). He served in this important role from May 4, 2017, until December 23, 2020.
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Who is Jay Clayton?
Jay Clayton is a skilled attorney. He has worked in law for many years. His most well-known job was leading the SEC. The SEC is a U.S. government agency. It protects investors and makes sure financial markets are fair.
Early Career and Education
Jay Clayton studied at top universities. He earned degrees from the University of Pennsylvania. He also studied at the University of Cambridge in England. After finishing school, he worked for a judge. From 1993 to 1995, he was a clerk for Judge Marvin Katz. Judge Katz worked in a U.S. District Court in Pennsylvania.
Later, Clayton worked at a big law firm. This firm was called Sullivan & Cromwell. He became a co-managing partner there. This means he helped lead one of the firm's main groups.
Leading the SEC
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is very important. It helps keep financial markets safe. The SEC makes sure companies follow rules. This protects people who invest their money.
Becoming the SEC Chairman
On January 4, 2017, President Donald Trump chose Jay Clayton. He nominated Clayton to be the SEC Chairman. This means President Trump suggested him for the job. The United States Senate then had to approve him.
On May 2, 2017, the Senate voted. They confirmed Clayton by a vote of 61 to 37. This meant he was approved for the role. On May 4, 2017, Jay Clayton officially started his job. He was sworn in as the Chairman.
After the SEC
After leaving the SEC, Jay Clayton continued his public service. On June 19, 2020, President Trump nominated him for another role. He was chosen to be the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York. This is a very important legal position.
