Crypto-Backed Democrat Wins Colorado Primary With Ripple Co-Founder’s Support

Manny Rutinel has won the Democratic primary for Colorado’s 8th congressional district, securing 61.7% of the vote against Shannon Bird’s 33.6%. He will now head to the November general election. Ahead of the primary, the You Can Push Back Super PAC, funded with $3.5 million from Ripple co-founder Chris Larsen, spent $1 million on media supporting Rutinel’s campaign.

Strong Crypto Backing From Industry Groups

Rutinel holds a “strongly supports crypto” rating from Stand With Crypto, a group affiliated with Coinbase, based on his positions on stablecoins, market structure and regulatory clarity. Coinbase is also a major backer of Fairshake, a PAC supporting candidates from both parties seen as favorable to the crypto industry. Public Citizen reported this week that crypto companies have spent roughly $189 million so far in the 2026 election cycle, largely through PAC contributions.

Poll Finds Public Wary Of Crypto’s Political Influence

A new poll from Americans for Financial Reform found most Americans across party lines are concerned about the crypto industry’s influence on lawmakers. The survey came after disclosures showed President Trump earned over $1.4 billion from crypto investments last year. Advocacy group officials said voters are increasingly troubled by potential conflicts of interest, while the White House has denied any wrongdoing by Trump or his family.