Bitcoin Showed Up in DC — And Washington Took Notice

Bitcoin Magazine

Bitcoin Showed Up in DC — And Washington Took Notice By Zack Cohen, Bitcoin Policy Institute Before diving into the recap, I want to say thank you. On behalf of the entire team at the Bitcoin Policy Institute, thank you to everyone who attended, supported, spoke, tuned in, or participated in any way. We spent months preparing for our third Bitcoin Policy Summit. What unfolded in Washington last week exceeded anything we could have expected. More than 1,000 people joined us: builders, policymakers, students, agency staff, journalists, energy experts, and human rights advocates. And what they found was not a party dressed up as a conference, but a serious two-day working session that reflected how far the Bitcoin conversation has come – and where it’s going. Bitcoin has long been misunderstood or sidelined in DC. It’s been easy for policymakers to dismiss or ignore it. But the 2025 Summit sent a different signal: Bitcoin isn’t going away. It’s not on the fringe. It’s at the center of emerging conversations about national strategy, economic strength, digital rights, and innovation. A Welcome That Set the Tone We opened the week with a packed welcome party, co-hosted with our friends at PubKey. To outsiders, DC may seem like a rigid town — buttoned-up, formal, slow-moving. But if you spend real time here, you know the truth: DC runs on relationships. And relationships are built in places like this. Over 450 attendees gathered in a room buzzing with live karaoke, strong cocktails (shoutout to Unchained for devising the Old Fashioned Bull Run and the Miner’s Mule), and constant conversation. It was loud. It was joyful. But most of all, it was serious energy. Bitcoiners had arrived. Who Was in the Room This year’s summit brought in:

  • 1,000+ total attendees
  • 300+ public policy professionals
  • 35 congressional offices, including 12 members of Congress
  • 100+ federal government employees
  • 50+ members of the press
  • 49 universities
  • 90,000+ livestream viewers
Attendees included national security experts, financial regulators, think tank analysts, open-source developers, nonprofit leaders, and more. Bitcoin’s coalition is broadening, and it showed. What We Talked About The program was structured around clear themes: national security, energy, privacy, financial inclusion, and legislative strategy. Keynotes, panels, and lightning talks made space for both technical depth and broad vision. In the opening segment, Zack Shapiro outlined BPI’s national strategy framework — a vision of American Bitcoin leadership grounded in open-source values, resilience, and forward-looking policy. That was followed by a sharp panel on Senate priorities, including the BITCOIN Act. Alex Leishman gave a data-rich talk on the American Bitcoin advantage — why our institutions, capital markets, and rule of law position the US to lead. Alex Gladstein brought the human rights lens to life, reminding the room that Bitcoin is still the most powerful freedom technology of the 21st century. Patrick Witt, Deputy Director of the President’s Council on Digital Assets, reiterated the administration’s strategic interest in Bitcoin, highlighting ongoing progress: “There will be the forthcoming report on the interagency activities. We’ve already taken some steps with the SPR. The question now is, how do we follow that up with an accumulation plan? There’s no shortage of opportunities and work to be done. So after we leave here, I’ll get right back to it.” Two democrats, Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY) and Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) joined Bitcoin Core’s 10th known developer Matt Corallo and BPI Co-president Grant McCarty to discuss the need for making the Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act bipartisan.  At one point during the panel, Rep. Torres remarked,  “The value of Bitcoin is more secure than the value of gold because you can always find more gold, but the supply of Bitcoin in the world is going to remain fixed in perpetuity.” Rep. Gottheimer, who recently signed on as a co-sponsor of the bill, joined Rep. Torres on stage to explain his decision to co-sponsor the bill and underscore the importance of protecting innovators and preserving the integrity of the open-source development ecosystem. In one of the most high-impact sessions, BPI’s Zack Shapiro sat down with SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce to discuss ETF structure, qualified custody, and what the future of Bitcoin-native financial infrastructure might look like. It was detailed, honest, and substantive — exactly what this moment calls for. Office Hours and the Q&A Room New this year, we introduced structured office hours: one-on-one sessions where attendees could sit down with our research fellows. These conversations dug into mining, privacy, regulation, and monetary strategy in an unfiltered setting. The Q&A Room added another layer of depth. Cygnal CEO Brent Buchanan walked through a recent poll of 800 likely midterm voters. The findings were clear: Bitcoiners are becoming a political constituency. Ignore them at your own risk. Anna Chekhovich also led a foundational Bitcoin 101 session for policymakers, breaking down the basics of Bitcoin in plain language, rooted in her global human rights work. Bitcoin on the Hill BPI’s Day on the Hill marked the largest coordinated effort to date of Bitcoin advocates engaging directly with lawmakers. Over 120 attendees participated in 118 confirmed meetings with congressional offices:
  • 48 Senate offices
  • 70 House offices
  • Over 10 meetings at the member level
  • Offices from 68 Democrats and 50 Republicans
  • Representation from 28 states, DC, and a U.S. territory
This wasn’t performative. It was strategic. For many in Congress, these were the first real conversations they’d had with serious, mission-driven Bitcoin advocates. Reflections What stood out this year was the tone. Bitcoiners came dressed in suits. Not as a costume, but as a signal. We came to engage seriously. The excitement in the room wasn’t hype — it was grounded in focus, preparation, and a shared sense that this moment mattered. And DC responded. Policymakers and staff weren’t just open, they were engaged. They asked good questions. They listened. The distance between Bitcoin and Washington is shrinking, fast. Personally, the most striking realization was that Gen Z had shown up in force. It wasn’t just the number of young people in the room—it was their presence. They were engaged, sharp, curious, and genuinely excited to be part of the conversation. I’ve been to more conferences than I can count, and this was the first time it felt like my peers weren’t watching from the sidelines. They were in it—asking questions, driving dialogue, shaping the future. And best of all, we’re only just getting started. This Is Only the Beginning The Bitcoin Policy Institute is uniquely positioned to host a summit that answers to no one but its mission. Bitcoin isn’t asking for special treatment. It’s not lobbying for handouts. It’s making a case, on the merits, for why it matters to American sovereignty, innovation, and economic freedom. That case just got a lot harder to ignore. See you next year. This is a guest post by Zach Cohen. Opinions expressed are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of BTC Inc or Bitcoin Magazine.
This post Bitcoin Showed Up in DC — And Washington Took Notice first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Zack Cohen.

US Congress Passes Invest America Act

Exactly a year from today, on the country’s 250th birthday, July 4, 2026, every American child will receive a $1,000 investment account at birth funded by the federal government. Thanks to the Invest America Act which was passed by Congress earlier today. The act was introduced by Texas Republican Senator Ted Cruz, and in addition […]

US House Announces July ‘Crypto Week’

On the same day the U.S. House of Representatives passed President Donald Trump’s flagship piece of legislation, the so-called “One Big Beautiful Bill,” Republican House leaders also declared the week of July 14, “Crypto Week,” according to a press release published by Arkansas House Republican French Hill. Crypto Week will feature a marathon review of […]

The One Big Beautiful Act Passes in the U.S. Senate — Without Bitcoin Tax Amendment

Bitcoin Magazine

The One Big Beautiful Act Passes in the U.S. Senate — Without Bitcoin Tax Amendment Today, the One Big Beautiful Act passed in the U.S. Senate with a 51-50 vote, the final vote having been cast by Vice President Vance. JUST IN: Vice President JD Vance breaks tie to pass President Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" pic.twitter.com/u3GhRXsg4z— Bitcoin Magazine (@BitcoinMagazine) July 1, 2025 After a marathon amendment session, the bill passed without any Bitcoin- or crypto-related amendments included in it. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) pushed for a vote on an amendment to the bill that would have provided for a de minimis capital gains exemption on crypto transactions of $300 or less, with a $5,000 yearly cap. The senator urged Bitcoin and crypto enthusiasts to call their senators to let them know that this issue was important to them. Call your Senators. Let ‘em know this matters to you! https://t.co/aQsSiOxLZs— Cynthia Lummis (@CynthiaMLummis) June 30, 2025 Leaders in the Bitcoin and crypto industry also spoke up about the importance of this amendment being added to the bill. BTC Inc. Chairman David Bailey shared on X that “the de minimus transaction exemption is the #1 request from the grassroots bitcoin and crypto community and anyone who stands against it is directly screwing over the 50m Americans that own bitcoin and crypto.” Gemini co-founder Tyler Winklevoss stated on X that “Passing the de minus transaction exemption for bitcoin and crypto transactions <$300 is critical to making America the bitcoin and crypto capital of the world. But alas, Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-ID) did not facilitate a vote on the amendment. Senator Lummis has acknowledged that the proposed amendment was not voted on and said that she plans to continue working with Senator Crapo to pass a law addressing crypto tax treatment. The senator’s office share the following statement with Bitcoin Magazine: “Senator Lummis had productive conversations with Chairman Crapo and other Senate Finance Committee members over the last few weeks, and looks forward to continuing her work with the Chairman and the rest of the committee to fix these important tax issues at a later date.” Senator Lummis did not comment further on when that later date might be. This post The One Big Beautiful Act Passes in the U.S. Senate — Without Bitcoin Tax Amendment first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Frank Corva.

Something is Brewing in Ireland: A Sound Punt Is Released, As Bitcoin Enters The National Conversation

Bitcoin Magazine

Something is Brewing in Ireland: A Sound Punt Is Released, As Bitcoin Enters The National Conversation For years, Bitcoin in Ireland has quietly simmered at the grassroots level—discussed in pubs and meetups, debated in Telegram groups, and occasionally splashed across headlines with predictable suspicion. But recently, the temperature is beginning to rise. With the release of “A Sound Punt: The Case for Ireland’s Interest in Bitcoin” by Bitcoin Network Ireland (BNI), and a weekend that sees both the Bitcoin Ireland Conference and Aontú’s Ard Fheis, it’s clear momentum is building on the Emerald Isle. A Sound Punt: A Paper for the Citizens of Ireland The new paper, released today by Bitcoin Network Ireland, is a concise, accessible document crafted to cut through the noise and present the merits of Bitcoin to the general public and politicians alike. Its aim is straightforward: provide a rational, jargon-free entry point into why Bitcoin matters, especially in an era of euro debasement and rising living costs. The name itself is a clever pun—while it is a nod to both “sound money” and Ireland’s former currency, the punt, it also playfully suggests that although the majority of people view it as associated with risk, this may be worth reevaluating. It’s a signal that this is about more than technology: it’s about claiming monetary sovereignty and re-examining what makes money “good” in the first place. What BNI is attempting to accomplish is bridging an important gap in understanding, helping citizens seeking change and government officials looking for solutions to recognize that sound, stateless money has value for everyone. As Mark Goodwin famously noted, “Bitcoin simply must be for enemies, or it will never be for friends.“—a neutral system that serves all participants regardless of their political stance. Ireland’s Long and Complicated Relationship With Money To appreciate the significance of this moment, it’s worth noting that Ireland’s relationship with money has always been distinct from its European neighbors. While the Romans introduced coinage to Britain over a thousand years before it was adopted in Ireland. The native Irish resisted state-issued money, relying instead on barter and bullion well into the second millennium. In ancient Ireland, the absence of coinage was a testament to a society that was stateless, highly decentralised, and it embraced a polycentric legal system varying between clans. The ideal of that society was that no man in society has rule over others, and even kings could be disposed of if they abused their power. So it’s perhaps no coincidence that Ireland was the last European society to adopt coinage, as coinage gives power to rulers. Eventually, it was forced upon the land by the English crown in 1601, this period coincided with the final stages of the Nine Years’ War (1594-1603) and the increasing English control over Ireland. To this day, Ireland has never had its own free-floating currency; it has always been tethered to external powers: first the pound sterling, then the European Monetary System, and now the euro under the ECB. So it should come as no coincidence that in recent years, the EU is growing unabated in power and influence over Ireland. “Give me control over a nation’s currency, and I care not who makes its laws.” — Mayer Amschel Rothschild (1743–1812) Perhaps, given this historical context, Ireland is uniquely positioned to understand the value of sound, stateless money. Bitcoin represents a return to the monetary independence that preceded state-issued currencies, but with the technological advantages of the digital age. Where ancient Irish kingdoms used market goods that couldn’t be manipulated by distant authorities, Bitcoin offers a modern equivalent: a system that can’t be debased or controlled by any power, whether domestic or foreign. This historical skepticism toward centrally-controlled currency is resurfacing in the present, as the Irish state and its citizens face a new wave of economic uncertainty via euro debasement and tariffs. Geopolitical and economic tensions have rarely felt less stable. Tariff disputes, renewed questions over Ireland’s foreign direct-investment model, and potential tech and pharma layoffs are sure to sharpen the focus on sovereignty and resilience. The release of “A Sound Punt” is timely, inviting the nation to once again question the wisdom of tying its fortunes to distant monetary authorities. A Political Crossroads Coinciding with the release of “A Sound Punt,” Dr. Niall Burke—a respected academic and BNI member—will be putting forward two motions at the Aontú Ard Fheis (party conference). Aontú, the party that saw the largest surge in votes in the last general election, has shown itself to be receptive to Bitcoin and is opening its doors to conversations that, until recently, were relegated to the margins. That Bitcoin motions are being presented and accepted at a major party conference is a marker of how the conversation is turning. Meanwhile, the Bitcoin Ireland Conference is gathering the country’s growing community of plebs, builders, and advocates. These circles, once on the periphery, are now finding doors opening in political circles. Public Discontent and a Call for Financial Autonomy It’s not just Bitcoiners who are seeking alternatives. Ireland is witnessing its largest public demonstrations since the post-GFC days of 2012. Recent marches have drawn in excess of 100,000 people to the streets of Dublin. These protests reflect deep frustration and a sense that the political establishment is no longer in alignment with its people. What’s particularly striking is how Bitcoin could serve as common ground for seemingly opposing interests. For protesters, Bitcoin offers protection from inflation and defends against government overreach. For a government concerned about economic stability and growth, Bitcoin may be the very solution it needs, especially to protect pension funds and indeed the state’s very own investment fund—ISIF, from inflation over the coming decades. This is the paradox and promise of sound, stateless money. It serves everyone’s interests because it enforces property rights, and can’t be captured or controlled by any single faction. Last, but not least, MMA star Conor McGregor’s foray into both politics and Bitcoin is something few would have predicted a year ago, but for those with an ear to the ground, this has been a developing story for some time. His proposal for a national Bitcoin reserve is emblematic of a broader national shift: Bitcoin is finally entering the Zeitgeist and perhaps he, like BNI, has a part to play in keeping it there. Bitcoin is an open-source monetary protocol, and adoption comes from all quarters, irrespective of politics. Bitcoin is neutral, it supports no partisan cause. What’s perhaps not recognized enough is how empowering Bitcoin can be and we should focus on its ability to unite rather than divide, giving every Irish citizen—regardless of their political views—tools for individual liberty, inflation protection, as well as practical solutions for businesses. Back to “A Sound Punt” Paper The paper itself makes a compelling case for Ireland’s interest in Bitcoin:

  • Sound Money Principles: It evaluates Bitcoin against the six characteristics of “good money”—durability, divisibility, uniformity, portability, verifiability, and scarcity.
  • Store of Value: The document highlights Bitcoin’s fixed supply as protection against rising inflation and currency debasement.
  • Practical Examples: It provides evidence of Bitcoin’s monetization, comparing the costs of buying a home in Euros vs. Bitcoin over the span of a decade.
  • Common Concern Rebuttals: The paper addresses the most common objections to Bitcoin—energy usage, volatility, criminal activity, undermining traditional currencies, and speculation—offering balanced counterarguments to each. 
  • Action Steps: Rather than just theoretical arguments, the paper outlines specific actions for individuals, businesses, and the government to consider, from education to strategic Bitcoin reserves.
The Beginning of a Process No one expects the Irish government to announce a Bitcoin treasury next week, and it’s debatable whether it should establish one at all. But “A Sound Punt” marks the beginning of a process that could, in time, help reshape Ireland’s approach to money and economic sovereignty. This accessible primer is just the first step in Bitcoin Network Ireland’s broader educational mission. BNI plans to publish a much more comprehensive policy paper for policymakers in the coming months, which is currently going through the editing phase. While “A Sound Punt” introduces the concepts to the general public, the forthcoming document will provide the detailed analysis and policy recommendations that decision-makers need. As BNI works to elevate this conversation through both public education and policy analysis, the goal remains clear: helping all citizens recognize Bitcoin’s universal value proposition. Holding a modest strategic allocation of bitcoin—at either the individual or institutional level—offers some protection against uncertainty and hope in a time of growing concerns. Download A Sound Punt: The Case for Ireland’s Interest in Bitcoin from the Bitcoin Network Ireland website. This post Something is Brewing in Ireland: A Sound Punt Is Released, As Bitcoin Enters The National Conversation first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Conor Mulcahy.