Ripple CEO Welcomes Most Pro-Crypto Congress in History

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse expresses optimism about the future of the crypto industry following the inauguration of the 119th Congress. 

The Ripple CEO took to X yesterday to welcome the 119th United States Congress, which he hailed as ‘the most pro-crypto Congress in history.’ 

His statement signals a potential shift toward a more favorable regulatory environment for the crypto industry. This speculation comes amid growing demand for a clearer regulatory framework to guarantee investors’ protection and foster innovation within the industry. 

The Beginning of More Positive Developments for Crypto 

Garlinghouse emphasized that the inauguration of the most pro-crypto Congress marks the beginning of more positive developments for crypto. 

Notably, he recognized the energy and excitement building across the industry following the inauguration of the 119th Congress, which has more than 200 pro-crypto advocates. 

Pro-Crypto Advocates Fill 298 Congressional Seats 

It is common knowledge that the crypto industry was fully involved in the just-concluded 2024 U.S. election. The sector made significant financial donations to different congressional candidates directly and through political action committees (PACs). 

This effort paid off immensely, as most pro-crypto congressional candidates emerged victorious. Prominent cryptocurrency advocacy hub Stand With Crypto claimed that 298 pro-crypto advocates were inaugurated into the 119th Congress. 

TOMORROW, January 3rd: SWC welcomes the 119th Congress and staff to the Capitol with free coffee!

Members and staff can stop by the @CompassCoffeeDC location at 82 I St SE to grab a free cup and celebrate the swearing-in of the most pro-crypto Congress in history. pic.twitter.com/mJtfBiVrmu

— Stand With Crypto🛡️ (@standwithcrypto) January 2, 2025

Congress to Deliberate on Crypto Policy Soon 

Although Congress began its session yesterday, it is expected to weigh into crucial matters, including crypto, in the coming months. 

In the meantime, Rep. French Hill, the House Financial Service Committee leader, has already appointed Allison Behuniak as policy director of the committee. 

For context, Hill is a pro-crypto advocate who is poised to prioritize crypto regulation, particularly the FIT21 Act and stablecoin regulation, this year. 

While the FIT21 Act revolves around determining which regulatory agency between the CFTC and SEC will regulate the crypto industry, the stablecoin regulation focuses exclusively on stablecoins. 

Following the inauguration of the 119th Congress, stakeholders like Garlinghouse are optimistic that the pro-crypto lawmakers will establish favorable policies that will drive the growth of the broader industry.