🇺🇸 U.S. Crypto Bills Collapse as CBDC Debate Divides Lawmakers

What was anticipated as a pivotal week for U.S. cryptocurrency regulation ended in political gridlock. Three major crypto-related bills—the GENIUS Act, the CLARITY Act, and the Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act—failed to pass the House after procedural votes were narrowly defeated. The outcome dealt a serious blow to bipartisan efforts aimed at providing regulatory clarity and oversight for the digital asset space.

⚖️ Political Divide Over CBDCs

At the heart of the failed votes was growing Republican resistance to central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). Conservative lawmakers, particularly from the House Freedom Caucus, demanded more aggressive language banning the development of a retail-focused CBDC. Many refused to advance any crypto-related legislation without clear and binding restrictions on CBDC use, arguing it posed a threat to privacy and financial freedom.

These lawmakers blocked the procedural rule required to bring the crypto bills to a formal vote, resulting in a 215-211 defeat. The refusal to compromise caused all three bills to stall in the early stages, despite prior momentum and cross-party discussions.

🏛️ Trump Attempts Damage Control

Former President Donald Trump, who remains a key influencer within the Republican party, stepped in to salvage the legislative effort. He met privately with conservative members in an attempt to broker a deal. Though he claimed progress had been made, a subsequent attempt to pass the bills again failed, showing that internal party divisions remained unresolved.

⏳ Stalled Progress and Market Jitters

The setback extended what became the longest procedural rule debate in House history—lasting over nine hours. Crypto markets responded cautiously, with slight price declines in major assets like Bitcoin, reflecting investor disappointment. The lack of regulatory progress underscored ongoing uncertainty for U.S.-based crypto firms and investors.

🧭 What's Next?

While the failure was a blow to immediate progress, lawmakers have not given up. Discussions are underway to amend the proposed legislation, possibly by attaching more restrictive anti-CBDC provisions to broader bills, such as defense or budget legislation. There’s still hope for a renewed vote before Congress breaks for its summer recess.

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🔍 Final Thought

The events of “Crypto Week” highlighted how ideological divisions—particularly over CBDCs—are shaping the future of digital asset regulation. The path forward remains uncertain, but lawmakers on both sides appear committed to reaching a resolution in the months ahead.