Following Brown’s defeat, the industry shifted its support to pro-crypto candidates, including potential 2026 re-election efforts, backed by significant financial contributions from pro-crypto PACs and entrepreneurs like the Winklevoss twins.

The cryptocurrency industry celebrated its political influence at a Wyoming symposium, highlighting its success in shifting Congress’s stance on digital assets after the 2024 election.

Pro-crypto groups, including the Winklevoss brothers’ $21 million fund and the Fellowship PAC’s $100 million pledge, are preparing for upcoming elections to build a strong political constituency and support allies.

The industry’s political influence is growing, with plans to continue efforts in the 2026 elections to support friendly candidates and oppose critics like Sherrod Brown.

A growing voter base of younger men under 50, many of whom see potential in crypto investments despite public skepticism, is bolstering the industry’s political influence and helping embed crypto into mainstream discourse.

Sherrod Brown, despite losing his Senate seat, has adopted a more favorable stance on cryptocurrency, emphasizing its role in the U.S. economy and advocating for consumer protections.

The cryptocurrency industry invested over $40 million in the 2024 Ohio Senate race to support Bernie Moreno against Sherrod Brown, signaling a strategic effort to influence pro-crypto legislation and shape future elections.

The industry aims to legitimize cryptocurrency through stronger oversight and consumer protections, especially in light of scandals like the FTX collapse and the conviction of Sam Bankman-Fried.

Even with Brown’s opposition and warnings about risks like money laundering and scams, the crypto industry’s spending reflects a strategic effort to shape policy and safeguard its interests.

Congress and the White House have become more receptive to crypto, passing legislation to regulate stablecoins and advancing broader regulatory bills, with support from President Trump and his family’s investments in crypto ventures.