Representative Brad Sherman, one of Congress’s most outspoken cryptocurrency critics, has advanced to the November general election in California’s 32nd Congressional District, setting up a rematch against pro-Bitcoin Republican Larry Thompson.
According to Eleanor Terrett, results from California’s June 2 top-two primary showed Sherman and Thompson securing the two highest vote totals, allowing both candidates to move on to the general election. Democrat Jake Levine finished behind the pair, ending his bid to challenge the veteran lawmaker.
The race is drawing attention from the digital asset industry because of the sharp contrast between the candidates’ views on cryptocurrency regulation and blockchain innovation.
🚨NEW: Crypto critic Rep. @BradSherman has advanced to the general election and will face Republican Larry Thompson in November in a rematch for California’s 32nd Congressional District seat.
Thompson finished ahead of Democrat @jakeclevine in Tuesday’s top-two primary, ending… pic.twitter.com/np3LHuVF49
— Eleanor Terrett (@EleanorTerrett) June 3, 2026
Sherman remains a leading crypto opponent
Sherman has spent years positioning himself as one of the strongest opponents of cryptocurrency in Congress. He has repeatedly raised concerns about fraud, market manipulation, money laundering, and risks to retail investors.
The California Democrat has frequently pushed for stricter oversight of digital assets and has often questioned the long-term value and utility of cryptocurrencies. His stance has made him a well-known figure among both crypto supporters and critics in Washington.
Despite growing political support for digital assets across the United States, Sherman has largely maintained his skeptical approach toward the sector.
Thompson campaigns on Bitcoin and blockchain
Thompson, an entertainment attorney and film producer, is taking the opposite approach.
The Republican candidate openly supports Bitcoin and blockchain technology, arguing that digital assets can improve financial systems and expand economic opportunities. He accepts campaign contributions in Bitcoin and has positioned himself as a candidate aligned with the interests of the crypto community.
His campaign has attracted attention from crypto advocates seeking candidates who support innovation and friendlier digital asset policies.
The election is expected to serve as another test of how much influence the crypto industry can exert in congressional races.
Crypto industry faces policy divide
While the policy divide between Sherman and Thompson is clear, California’s 32nd District remains a difficult target for crypto-backed political efforts. The district, which includes parts of Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley, has long favored Democrats. In their previous contest in 2024, Sherman defeated Thompson by more than 30 per cent points.
That history may discourage major crypto political action committees from spending heavily on the race, as industry groups are increasingly focused on competitive districts where their support could have a greater impact.
Meanwhile, Terrett has pushed back against growing claims that President Donald Trump’s latest executive order gives crypto exchanges direct access to Federal Reserve master accounts. The clarification followed a wave of reactions across X after Trump signed the executive order titled “Integrating Financial Technology Innovation into Regulatory Frameworks”.
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