In a closely contested Senate race, pro-crypto Republican candidate Bernie Moreno has emerged victorious over Democrat Sherrod Brown, marking a significant shift in Ohio's political space.
The Associated Press announced Moreno's win in the early hours of Wednesday (November 6), ending Brown's tenure and replacing a notable opponent of cryptocurrency regulation with a vocal supporter.
Moreno's Senate Victory And The Supporters
As chair of the Senate Banking Committee, Brown held considerable sway over digital currency legislation, making Moreno's win a pivotal development for the industry, especially in Ohio.
Having no prior experience in political office, Moreno positioned himself as a political outsider with strong backing from influential figures within the Republican Party, including President Donald Trump.
Trump publicly endorsed Moreno, praising him as a key MAGA ally in the Senate. According to NBC Newsthe race drew significant financial attention, with over $500,000 used on advertising.
Much of Moreno's financial backing came from political action committees, including the pro-crypto Defend American Jobs PAC, which invested $41 million in his campaign.
Moreno's stance on crypto regulation was a central focus of his campaign. He frequently criticized “career politicians” like Sherrod Brown for their perceived lack of understanding regarding digital assets and promised to bring regulatory clarity and innovation to the forefront.
Forever politicians like Sherrod Brown and Joe Biden don't understand the first thing about crypto and are totally unqualified to regulate it. They are obsessed with destroying crypto because they hate American innovation.
I'll lead the fight to defend crypto in the US Senate. pic.twitter.com/yiZvv3OiGl
— Bernie Moreno (@berniemoreno) June 29, 2024
Pro-Crypto Legislative Agenda and Background
Moreno has clarified that his agenda will prioritize policies supporting the crypto industry. In various public statements, he has emphasized that the digital currency sector does not seek an unregulated environment but desires clear rules that encourage growth and innovation.
Moreno's advocacy includes the establishment of a national Bitcoin reserve and initiatives aimed at regulatory certainty. Furthermore, Moreno's credentials in the blockchain space extend beyond politics.
As the owner of Bernie Moreno Companies, a group with investments in blockchain technology, Moreno has a vested interest in the industry's growth. He was also a co-founder of Blockland Cleveland, an initiative to promote blockchain adoption in the local economy.
At its height, the organization boasted a membership of 1,500 individuals. Additionally, Moreno was a vocal supporter of a recent initiative to make Ohio one of the first states to accept Bitcoin for state tax paymentssignaling his commitment to practical digital currency applications.
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