Nikolas Sargeant
Pro-crypto Republican Bernie Moreno has secured a landmark victory in Ohio's Senate race, unseating longtime Democratic incumbent Sherrod Brown in a closely watched contest that could reshape digital asset policy in Congress.
With final tallies showing Moreno ahead by 50.6% to 46%, the Associated Press has declared victory for the blockchain entrepreneur and former car dealership owner. The win marks the end of Brown's 17-year Senate tenure and signals a potential sea change for cryptocurrency regulation in Washington.
Moreno, who co-founded ChampTitles, a blockchain platform for digital vehicle titles, campaigned heavily on embracing financial innovation. His tech-forward message resonated with voters and attracted significant support, including $12 million from the Fairshake Super PAC.
Throughout his campaign, Moreno positioned himself as cryptocurrency's champion in Congress, directly challenging what he called "forever politicians" who he argued lacked understanding of emerging financial technologies.
Banking Committee Leadership Shifts as Crypto Skeptic Falls
Brown's defeat carries particular significance given his role as Senate Banking Committee chair and his consistent criticism of cryptocurrencies. The longtime senator had advocated for stricter oversight of digital assets, frequently raising concerns about their potential use in illegal activities.
The change in committee leadership could mark a turning point for cryptocurrency regulation, with industry observers anticipating a more innovation-friendly approach under new leadership.
The Defend American Jobs PAC, which directed $40 million in crypto industry funding toward Moreno's campaign, celebrated the outcome: "Elizabeth Warren ally Sherrod Brown's defeat ends an era of crypto opposition in the Senate. Senator-Elect Moreno's victory demonstrates Ohio's commitment to innovation and America's technological leadership."
The industry's enthusiasm was echoed by Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse, who took to X to applaud Moreno's victory alongside other crypto-friendly candidates' success in the election.
