What could happen if the CLARITY Act fails to pass in 2026

The US Senate has a narrow window to approve the CLARITY Act, a crypto market structure bill that many in the industry want passed this year. If the measure does not advance, it could be delayed until a new Congress takes office in 2027, when the political balance may be different. Senate Republicans plan to bring the bill to a cloture vote, but they will need support from some Democrats to overcome a filibuster. If the legislation falls short, lawmakers will have limited time left in session before the next Congress begins, which could force the effort to restart under new leadership. Supporters of the bill, including Senator Cynthia Lummis, have warned that failure this year could push a final vote much farther into the future. The article also notes that midterm elections could shape whether Democrats control one or both chambers, which would affect the bill’s chances. The piece further says cryptobacked political spending may influence races in 2026, while the White House and federal regulators are unlikely to change before 2029. That means any major shift in digital asset policy would still face the current president’s veto power and the direction set by agencies such as the SEC and CFTC.