John Deaton, the well-known lawyer defending XRP holders, announced his candidacy for 2026 this Monday. The lawyer made the announcement at an event in Worcester, Massachusetts. This time, John Deaton seeks Senate seat by challenging Democratic Senator Ed Markey, following his failed attempt against Elizabeth Warren in 2024.
Deaton will run as the Republican candidate. “I’m winning this time,” Deaton stated in a campaign video shown during the Worcester event. Although he is a recognized figure in the crypto industry for his role in Ripple’s legal battle with the SEC, his announcement focused mainly on his personal background and cost-of-living issues affecting citizens. Deaton lost the 2024 election to Warren by approximately 700,000 votes.
The lawyer gained notoriety in the crypto sector by representing thousands of XRP holders. His new candidacy brings digital asset policy back to the stage in Massachusetts. His opponent, Ed Markey, is not an ally of the industry. Markey, 80, voted against the GENIUS stablecoin bill. He has also publicly criticized the “extravagant electricity use” of cryptocurrency mining.
Can an XRP advocate shift the crypto balance in the Senate?
Furthermore, during his 2024 campaign, Deaton did clash with Warren over their opposing views on the crypto sector. His candidacy attracted significant financial support from the industry. He received over $360,000 in the first quarter of 2024 alone. These funds came from executives at key firms like Ripple, Gemini, and Kraken. The industry is expected to mobilize again to support his 2026 run.
It is unclear what Deaton’s chances will be in a state that traditionally favors Democrats. Nonetheless, his new electoral race will be closely watched. Mason Lynaugh of Stand With Crypto noted that the community will always be excited about someone advocating for crypto policy. Deaton’s main focus on the economy and cost of living may seek to attract voters beyond the crypto space, as John Deaton seeks Senate seat for a second time.
