Candidates backed by the cryptocurrency industry's leading political action committee, Fairshake, secured significant primary victories in Michigan and Washington on August 4, strengthening the sector's influence ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The wins add to a series of successful races funded by crypto-affiliated PACs, which have deployed hundreds of thousands of dollars to support both Republican and Democratic contenders perceived as favorable toward digital asset legislation.
In Michigan's 4th Congressional District, incumbent Republican Rep. Bill Huizenga won his party's nomination after receiving nearly $512,000 in support from Defend American Jobs, Fairshake's Republican-aligned affiliate. His campaign also drew backing from Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), Winklevoss Capital, and Coinbase. Huizenga, a vocal advocate for clear crypto rules, will now face Democratic challenger Sean McCann in November. During a 2025 stablecoin hearing, Huizenga argued that stablecoins could reinforce the U.S. dollar’s reserve currency status.
In Washington, Democratic Reps. Suzan DelBene, Kim Schrier, and Marilyn Strickland all secured their primaries with help from Protect Progress, Fairshake's Democratic-focused arm. Campaign finance records show Protect Progress spent about $113,120 for DelBene, $105,040 for Schrier, and $103,020 for Strickland. Republican Amanda McKinney also advanced after receiving nearly $506,917 from Defend American Jobs. The outcomes underscore a coordinated industry push to shape congressional composition as lawmakers continue negotiating the CLARITY Act, which would establish a federal framework for digital assets.
Fairshake entered the 2026 cycle with a $193 million war chest, funded by major players like Coinbase and a16z. Its strategy of bipartisan spending has already yielded wins in Maryland, New York, Utah, Alabama, and Texas, with millions more directed to competitive primaries. Industry groups such as the Digital Chamber have also intensified engagement on Capitol Hill, meeting with lawmakers to advance crypto regulation. While proponents see the investments as crucial for fostering innovation, consumer watchdogs have raised concerns over regulatory capture and financial transparency.
