Senate Delays CLARITY Act Vote Until September Amid Democratic Opposition

Senate Republican leaders are set to leave for August recess without voting on the CLARITY Act, pushing the crypto market structure bill to at least September, according to Politico.

Thune Confirms the Delay

Majority Leader John Thune confirmed the chamber won’t vote before recess, citing Democratic opposition. He said Democrats are firmly against a vote now, though he worked with sponsors like Senator Lummis and plans to prioritize it once the Senate returns.

Contradicts Earlier Optimism

The delay follows comments from Banking Committee Chair Tim Scott, who said Thursday the chamber should hold a vote before recess “without any question.” Politico reported, citing three sources, that the bill still lacks Democratic backing, with negotiations ongoing.

What the Bill Does

The CLARITY Act would create a federal framework for digital assets, dividing oversight between the SEC and CFTC. Without Democratic support, Republicans may struggle to reach 60 votes needed to beat a filibuster.

Thune could still file cloture before recess, setting up a September vote without counting as an actual vote. Democrats have declined to speed up pre-recess business.