By: Isha Das
Ripple Labs has made a significant contribution to the Fairshake political action committee (PAC) by donating $25 million. This donation is part of an ongoing effort by Ripple to support pro-crypto candidates in the upcoming U.S. elections. Alongside Ripple, other major players such as Coinbase and a16z have also contributed substantial amounts, with Coinbase pledging an identical $25 million and a16z providing $23 million. This financial support has brought the total funds raised by Fairshake, which is poised to shape the 2026 midterm elections, to an impressive $103 million.
The collective contributions received by Fairshake PAC mark one of the largest efforts to back pro-crypto candidates in the political arena. This support surpasses most contributions except those from fossil fuel interests, highlighting the growing influence of the crypto sector in political campaigning. In the past, the PAC has already played a role in electing 48 candidates in recent elections, signaling the increasing clout of the crypto industry within political circles.
Ripple's CEO, Brad Garlinghouse, emphasized the importance of supporting candidates who are pro-crypto, pro-growth, and pro-innovation. This sentiment was echoed by other industry leaders, such as Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong, who noted the critical shift in how lawmakers are now perceiving cryptocurrency and blockchain technologies. The widespread backing from the crypto community indicates a coordinated strategy to foster an environment that advances American innovation while ensuring responsible regulation in the blockchain domain.
Fairshake's initiatives underscore a broader movement within the crypto industry to engage more deeply with political processes, aiming to educate and influence lawmakers. With Ripple's latest donation, the PAC appears well-positioned to continue rallying support and advocating for blockchain development in the United States, reinforcing its status as a formidable player in the political landscape.