- John Deaton has announced his candidacy for the Massachusetts Senate in 2026, targeting incumbent Democrat Ed Markey.
- Deaton previously ran as a Republican candidate in 2024, but lost to Elizabeth Warren. Now he’s aiming to take over the marquee spot.
- The lawyer has become known for his legal assistance in XRP and crypto-related battles with regulators.
- The 2026 race is expected to feature a heated debate over blockchain regulation, a key policy focus for Deaton.
- Support from the cryptocurrency community remains strong, with donations to date exceeding $360,000 in early 2024.
Deaton returns to politics
John Deaton, a prominent cryptocurrency advocate and legal expert specializing in blockchain issues, has announced plans to run for the US Senate again. This time, he aims to challenge incumbent Sen. Ed Markey in Massachusetts in 2026 after an unsuccessful bid in 2024. The attorneys made the announcement at an election event in Worcester, Massachusetts, reaffirming their commitment to representing the interests of crypto stakeholders and the broader electorate alike.
Deaton’s previous campaign, which ran as a Republican, was notable for strong support from the crypto industry, including more than $360,000 in donations in the first quarter of 2024. Although the 2026 campaign is not explicitly focused on digital asset policy, Deaton’s previous clash with Elizabeth Warren over crypto regulation suggests that he continues to work on blockchain-friendly legislation.
Deaton’s legal victories, particularly his efforts to assist XRP holders in the SEC’s lawsuit against Ripple Labs, have strengthened his standing within the crypto community. His claims align with industry-wide calls for clearer regulation and fair treatment of blockchain projects.
Massachusetts’ political landscape is competitive, with Democratic Rep. Seth Moulton also seeking to challenge Markey’s seat. Markey, who is nearing 80 years old, has previously criticized crypto mining for its environmental impact and opposed certain crypto-friendly laws.
What lies ahead?
Advocates like Mason Lynaugh, community director for Stand With Crypto, believe Deaton’s candidacy makes him an important voice on crypto policy in Congress. “He’s rallying a base of voters who want industry interests represented at the federal level,” Rinow said.
While it remains unclear how Deaton’s bid will fare in the politically competitive state, previous support from crypto executives and industry donors underscores his influence in the crypto policy arena. The 2026 election campaign is expected to be intense, with candidates debating topics such as the future of blockchain regulation, DeFi innovation, and the role of cryptocurrencies in the U.S. financial ecosystem.