Democrats Draw Firm Line on Conflicts of Interest in Digital Asset Policy
US lawmakers are intensifying scrutiny over ethics and conflicts of interest as Congress debates sweeping crypto market structure legislation. Democratic senators are reportedly insisting on strict safeguards to prevent elected officials from profiting from the digital asset industry, warning that the bill cannot advance without these protections.
Several Democratic leaders on key Senate committees are demanding amendments to the Responsible Financial Innovation Act (RFIA) that would introduce clear conflict-of-interest prohibitions. These provisions would bar public officials — including the US president — from benefiting financially from ties to crypto companies.
Lawmakers involved have described these ethics rules as a “red line”, signaling that bipartisan support hinges on addressing concerns around transparency and personal financial gain.
Wyoming Senator Cynthia Lummis said;
The legislation, which previously passed the House as the CLARITY Act, has been under Senate consideration since July. Its progress has been slowed by political disagreements, debates over decentralized finance oversight, and delays caused by a lengthy government shutdown late last year.
Draft versions suggest the bill would expand the Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s authority over digital assets, reshaping how crypto markets are regulated in the US.
Supporters of the bill acknowledge that the 2026 midterm elections could influence its fate, particularly among Democrats weighing voter sentiment on crypto regulation. Adding to the uncertainty, a leading Senate advocate of the bill has announced plans to leave office in 2027, potentially weakening momentum.
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