Crypto-Backed PAC Spends $8.6 Million in Illinois Races Ahead of US Midterm Elections

A political action committee backed by major crypto industry players has increased its spending in key Illinois races ahead of the 2026 United States midterm elections. The committee, Fairshake, reported several new expenditures aimed at influencing congressional and Senate contests in the state.

Recent filings with the Federal Election Commission showed a $16,000 media purchase opposing Illinois state representative La Shawn Ford in his campaign for a seat in the US Congress. This adds to roughly $1.8 million already spent in the race during 2026. Illinois voters are scheduled to hold primary elections on March 17.

Millions Directed Toward Senate and House Campaigns

Additional filings revealed that more than $5.5 million was spent opposing Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for the US Senate.

Associated groups linked to the committee also funded smaller campaigns. Protect Progress reported spending about $84,000 supporting Nikki Budzinski’s House race and roughly $90,000 in support of Robin Kelly’s Senate campaign.

Crypto Industry Political Influence Grows

Combined spending from the committee and related groups in Illinois races has reached approximately $8.6 million. The organization has reported holding about $193 million in total funds and has stated its intention to support candidates who favor crypto policy while opposing those seen as hostile to the industry.

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