Emre Yumlu 
Some observers argue that political donations are essential for clarifying cryptocurrency regulations.
Crypto Companies Spend $134 Million: Rising Political Influence and Regulatory Concerns
Cryptocurrency companies have spent over $134 million on the 2024 U.S. elections, raising concerns about increasing political influence and regulatory risks, according to the Center for Political Accountability (CPA).
By engaging in “unregulated political spending,” crypto firms have created significant challenges. According to the report, these donations, aimed at securing a favorable regulatory environment, are eroding public trust and exposing companies to legal and reputational risks.
Corporate Political Donations
Cryptocurrency regulation gained attention ahead of President Donald Trump’s March 7 White House Crypto Summit, with a strategic Bitcoin Reserve decision. Supported by major firms like Coinbase, Ripple, and Andreessen Horowitz, Fairshake spent over $40 million backing crypto-friendly candidates.
Fairshake and associated PACs were active in key congressional races aiming to shape favorable laws for digital assets. However, the industry’s growing influence through large contributions and ambiguous financial maneuvers is increasing instability and public distrust.
As the sector continues to engage politically, Public Citizen filed a complaint with the FEC, alleging that Coinbase’s donations violated federal election laws. Coinbase committed an additional $25 million to Fairshake for the 2026 midterm elections.
Political Donations and Regulations
Despite the risks outlined in the report, some regulatory experts argue that these donations are necessary for the development of innovation-friendly regulations.
Anndy Lian, a blockchain expert, stresses the importance of regulatory clarity for stability and growth in the sector. However, risks such as “regulatory capture,” where big firms’ interests take precedence, could undermine investor confidence. Lian believes that the community’s transparency and decentralization features can help mitigate these risks.
Crypto’s political influence is also highlighted by the collapse of the Libra token, supported by Argentina’s President Javier Milei. After insiders withdrew $107 million, the token lost 94% of its value, leading to a $4 billion loss. The Libra scandal underscores the risks of government promotion of unregulated securities.
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