Maybe it's also a reference to point of sale KYC where the merchants require it. The question becomes "would you use bitcoin if mining it and using it in stores required KYC".
But the distinction in the statement is “every transaction” versus kyc in mining pool participation.
Discussion
It’s not if, but when, if the state gets their way.
https://www.nobsbitcoin.com/fincen-wants-to-outlaw-certain-bitcoin-on-chain-transactions/
Indeed.