It’s “Crypto Week” in the US House of Representatives, and Alaska’s Congressman Nick Begich is emerging as one of the nation’s most influential voices on cryptocurrency policy. From July 14-18, lawmakers are debating and voting on sweeping digital asset legislation, with Begich playing a central role as both a legislator and an expert in the rapidly evolving crypto landscape.
Begich, already known for his pro-oil, gas, mining, and aerospace stances, has made a name in Washington for his in-depth knowledge of Bitcoin and blockchain technology. His involvement in shaping cryptocurrency legislation comes as the US House focuses on three major bills that could redefine the nation’s approach to digital assets: the GENIUS Act, the CLARITY Act, and the Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act.
The Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoins Act (GENIUS Act) seeks to regulate stablecoins, which are cryptocurrencies pegged to traditional assets like the US dollar. Already passed in the Senate with bipartisan support (68-30), the bill would require stablecoin issuers to maintain full cash reserves, register with federal regulators, and follow anti-money laundering protocols. With President Trump signaling enthusiastic support, the bill is expected to pass the House this week.
The Digital Asset Market Clarity Act (CLARITY Act) aims to end the longstanding regulatory turf war between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission by clearly defining which agencies oversee different types of digital assets. The legislation promises to unlock innovation while drawing criticism from Democrats concerned about consumer protections.
The Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act, introduced by House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, would ban the Federal Reserve from issuing a central bank digital currency (CBDC). Proponents argue it protects financial privacy, while critics call it premature since the Fed has yet to formally pursue a digital dollar.
Begich is not just a participant in Crypto Week; he is helping lead the conversation. Earlier this year, Begich introduced the BITCOIN Act of 2025, co-sponsored with Sen. Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming, proposing the creation of a US Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. The ambitious legislation would allow the federal government to acquire up to 1 million Bitcoin over five years using budget-neutral mechanisms like Federal Reserve remittances and gold revaluations. Crucially, the bill includes strong protections for Bitcoin self-custody rights.
Begich’s personal experience bolsters his credibility. He has publicly disclosed holding Bitcoin since 2013, giving him over a decade of firsthand knowledge in the digital asset space. He has been a sought-after speaker at major crypto events like the Bitcoin for America Summit and the Bitcoin Policy Summit, where he has shared the stage with leading policymakers such as Tom Emmer.
Congressman Begich is one of the few lawmakers who deeply understands the technical and economic implications of Bitcoin. With bipartisan support behind the GENIUS Act, passage seems likely within weeks. The CLARITY Act faces tougher odds in the Senate, while the Anti-CBDC Act may struggle to advance. Nevertheless, Crypto Week marks a pivotal moment for America’s digital asset strategy, and Alaska’s Nick Begich is at the heart of it — a national leader helping chart the future of U.S. financial innovation.
That is a job that mary would NEVER have gotten! Way to go Nick & Alaska!
The problem is, if the federal government, or any government for that matter, is involved, there is the constant threat of debanking and other nefarious actions against individuals and companies. I don’t think legislation can be written that is loophole-free, and you can bet these will be exploited by future administrations, especially if they involve people like Biden and Harris.