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In an unexpected twist, nine Senate Democrats have rallied behind a cryptocurrency bill emerging from committee—a move that has sent ripples through the Republican camp, particularly among supporters of former President Trump. What seemed like a straightforward victory for the GOP has been complicated by progressive voices within the Senate Democratic caucus, who are raising alarms about potential corruption associated with cryptocurrency, particularly as it relates to the former president. These Democrats are advocating for more robust regulations and oversight within the proposed legislation.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) has aligned himself with the progressive faction, effectively stymying the bill favored by Trump and his allies.
Nine pro-crypto Democratic senators are withholding their votes for legislation that would create rules for stablecoins—a crypto type pegged to assets like the US dollar—in hopes of persuading Republicans to enhance the bill’s provisions concerning national security and consumer protection.
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During the past week, Schumer has worked diligently to unify his party around the demand for amendments to the bill, aiming to prevent a fracture among Democrats during the crucial initial vote. After facing significant backlash from the left regarding his handling of government funding, he has adopted a more assertive stance on cryptocurrency, publicly siding with progressives. This shift may signal a strategic pivot for the party as they leverage the filibuster—their last line of defense against Trump’s legislative agenda.
Trump has a vested interest in this legislation; both he and his affluent allies have been profiting from various cryptocurrency schemes since his presidency commenced.
It appears that Senate Democrats are beginning to navigate this complex terrain effectively.