Senators Seek Ethics Changes Before CLARITY Act Vote

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Three Democratic senators have urged the US Senate to reject the CLARITY Act unless the bill is amended to include stronger ethics and conflict-of-interest provisions for public officials.

Senators Elizabeth Warren, Jeff Merkley, and Chris Murphy said the legislation should prevent elected officials and senior government employees from benefiting financially from digital assets while shaping crypto policy. They argue that the current version of the bill lacks sufficient safeguards against potential conflicts of interest.

Senator Murphy said at the press conference:

There is no reason to pass a new regulatory system for crypto if this system does not stop Trump’s corruption of the entire industry. This bill is worthless if it protects Trump’s dominance over an industry that he will have more control to regulate. In fact, the bill is in and of itself a fundamental corruption if it gives Trump’s corruption the protection of law.

Supporters of the CLARITY Act argue that it would provide greater regulatory certainty for digital asset businesses and help clarify oversight responsibilities between federal agencies. Opponents, however, continue to press for additional provisions addressing ethics, consumer protection, and anti-money laundering requirements.

The latest objections do not necessarily prevent the bill from advancing, but they add to the debate as lawmakers work toward a final Senate vote. If approved, the legislation would represent one of the most significant changes to the US regulatory framework for virtual assets to date.