Crypto political action committees (PACs) have collectively spent $7.2 million in five states ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, according to recent filings with the Federal Election Commission. The funds — deployed by Protect Progress PAC and Defend American Jobs PAC, both affiliated with the Fairshake network — aim to sway legislative outcomes on key crypto bills including the GENIUS Act and CLARITY Act.
Protect Progress PAC: $1.6M for Democratic Pro-Crypto Candidates
Protect Progress PAC allocated $1.6 million to support Democratic candidates Jasmine Clark (Georgia) and Christian Menefee (Texas), both known for their favorable stance on digital assets. Simultaneously, the PAC committed $1.5 million to oppose Texas Representative Al Green, a vocal crypto skeptic. This bipartisan approach underscores the industry’s focus on policy alignment over party affiliation.
Defend American Jobs PAC: $5.6M Bolsters Republican Allies
Defend American Jobs PAC reported $5.6 million in spending across Georgia, Nebraska, Alabama, and Kentucky. Kentucky Senator Andy Barr, a leading pro-crypto voice in Congress, received over $3.5 million in media support from the PAC. Barr has championed stablecoin regulation and digital asset clarity, making his re-election a top priority for the industry. The heavy ad spending sends a clear message to other lawmakers: supporting crypto-friendly policies brings substantial campaign backing.
Strategic Context: Battleground for Crypto Legislation
The spending surge comes as Congress deliberates the GENIUS Act, which would create a federal framework for stablecoin issuers, and the CLARITY Act, which aims to define when digital assets are securities or commodities. By securing seats for allies and targeting opponents early, Fairshake groups hope to build a congressional majority favorable to crypto innovation. Analysts view the $7.2 million as an initial tranche, with more spending expected as primary elections intensify. The 2026 midterms are shaping up to be a watershed moment for crypto regulation, and industry PACs are betting big to shape the outcome.