Tether Exec Says 2026 Elections Could Have ‘Seismic Impact’ on Crypto — Here’s What’s at Stake

TLDR

• Tether’s Jesse Spiro warned the 2026 midterms could have a “seismic impact” on crypto policy
• Recent legislative wins like the GENIUS Act could be reversed after the elections
• Crypto advocacy groups are ramping up political spending and voter mobilization
• Stand With Crypto has nearly 3 million members ready to hold politicians accountable
• Industry leaders say crypto must remain non-partisan to secure durable policy wins

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Crypto industry leaders gathered at Consensus Miami 2026 this week to talk about what they see as a critical moment for digital asset policy in Washington.

Jesse Spiro, Head of Government Affairs at Tether, told attendees that the 2026 U.S. midterm elections will be a major test for the industry’s recent political gains.

Spiro used the phrase “seismic impact” to describe how the midterms could shape the industry’s direction, even as crypto groups prepare to spend heavily on the November elections.

Growing Political Muscle

Other speakers at the panel said the industry’s political reach is expanding heading into the fall.

Colin McLaren, Head of Government Relations at the Solana Policy Institute, said the focus now is on making policy wins last. He said the industry needs to keep pushing on priorities like tax reform and developer protections.

McLaren said the goal is ensuring future congressional leadership continues to advance pro-crypto policy, not just winning individual votes.

Voter Mobilization Efforts

Mason Lynaugh, Executive Director of Stand With Crypto, said the group’s nearly 3 million members see elections as an accountability moment for lawmakers.

Pro-crypto organizations are also working to influence which candidates receive campaign funding ahead of November.

The GENIUS Act, which governs stablecoin regulation, and the CLARITY Act on market structure are among the legislative wins that industry leaders say remain at risk if the political makeup of Congress shifts after the midterms.

Spiro’s comments came as part of a broader panel discussion at Consensus Miami 2026, one of the largest annual gatherings in the crypto industry.

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