The meetings could shape cryptocurrency policy at the federal level
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse is joining a group of crypto leaders and former regulators on Capitol Hill this week to discuss the future of US digital asset regulation. The Senate Banking Committee hosted the hearing as lawmakers consider a series of bills that could reshape the crypto market landscape.
Garlinghouse was part of a high-profile lineup that included Blockchain Association CEO Summer Mersinger, Chainalysis CEO Jonathan Levin, and former CFTC Chair Timothy Massad. Their testimonies come at a time when both chambers of Congress are signaling a stronger push toward formalizing crypto policy by the end of the year.
The hearing focused on potential pathways to regulate the digital asset industry and was framed by a broader debate on whether the US will lead or fall behind in blockchain innovation. Mersinger stressed that the country is at a turning point, urging lawmakers to implement clear and balanced rules rather than risk losing influence to other jurisdictions with more structured regulatory approaches.
At the same time, the House of Representatives is launching “Crypto Week,” aiming to move forward with three major legislative efforts. These include the GENIUS Act, which outlines stablecoin regulation; the CLARITY Act, which aims to define digital asset markets; and a bill to halt the development of a central bank digital currency (CBDC).
Garlinghouse’s appearance marked a significant step in Ripple’s deeper engagement with policymakers. Ripple has been active in political circles, having donated XRP to President Trump’s inauguration fund and participating in White House crypto discussions earlier this year.
Concerns over political entanglements were also addressed during the hearing, with former White House ethics lawyer Richard Painter testifying about potential conflicts tied to Trump’s involvement in crypto. Lawmakers are expected to keep a close eye on these concerns as digital asset policy evolves in the coming months.
