a16z crypto backs Fairshake PACs with $23 million for pro-crypto policy in 2026 midterms

Chris Dixon, managing partner, stated, "No matter what happens on Election Day we are taking a long-term approach to our policy efforts."

Author: Fortune

Key Takeaways

• Andreessen Horowitz is donating over $23 million to Fairshake for the 2026 election cycle.
• A16z advocates for comprehensive market structure legislation and stablecoin laws.

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Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) has committed over $23 million to Fairshake and its affiliated PACs for the 2026 midterm elections, aiming to drive progress on crypto regulation in Washington, according to a press release issued today.

This funding underscores a16z’s commitment to creating a practical regulatory framework that fosters innovation while protecting consumers and supporting the growth of the crypto industry.

The firm stated that Fairshake’s mission aligns with its vision for bipartisan cooperation on crypto policy, noting that “crypto isn’t red or blue but is critical in ensuring America remains a global tech leader.”

As part of its long-term policy strategy, a16z emphasizes the importance of educating lawmakers about the unique challenges facing the crypto industry. 

This strategy includes meetings with policymakers from both sides of the aisle and introducing them to entrepreneurs in blockchain technology who are navigating regulatory uncertainty. 

According to a16z, the need for congressional action on crypto policy has become more pressing as the asset class continues to grow. 

With over 40 million Americans now holding crypto, Bitcoin and Ethereum exchange-traded products managing $65 billion in on-chain assets, and stablecoins ranking among the largest US debt holders globally, the firm argues that comprehensive rules are crucial. 

However, a16z contends that regulatory agencies have often relied on enforcement actions in the absence of formal guidelines, which it says risks sidelining Congress’s role in shaping crypto policy.

Chris Dixon, managing partner of a16z crypto, highlighted this challenge stating, “Contributing to Fairshake is just one important component to achieving our ultimate goal of achieving clear laws to govern the crypto industry.”

a16z’s policy recommendations for Congress include implementing comprehensive market structure legislation to address bad actors, establishing stablecoin regulations to encourage competition, and creating a pathway to compliance for decentralized networks. 

In addition to its contributions to Fairshake, a16z plans to continue its direct engagement with lawmakers in D.C. to build support for a regulatory framework that balances innovation and consumer protection.

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