Rep. Al Green Slams Crypto Spending in Texas Primary

Green vows to fight crypto industry's $1.5 million effort to unseat him in congressional race

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Rep. Al Green (D-Texas) has strongly criticized a crypto super PAC's plans to spend $1.5 million to oppose his reelection bid in the Texas 18th Congressional District primary. Green argues that lawmakers 'cannot allow the crypto industry to own Congress' and vows to win despite the industry's financial advantage.

Why it matters

This clash highlights the growing influence of the cryptocurrency industry in U.S. politics, as crypto-affiliated groups seek to shape the political landscape through major campaign spending. Green's stance reflects concerns that unchecked crypto industry influence could undermine the independence of Congress.

The details

Protect Progress, a super PAC affiliated with the pro-crypto Fairshake network, announced plans to spend over $1.5 million to try to unseat Green, who sits on the House Financial Services Committee. Green accused the crypto industry of trying to 'intimidate other members of Congress' and vowed that his district 'will not be bought, and it is not for sale.'

  • On February 13, 2026, Rep. Al Green slammed the crypto super PAC's plans in a video statement.

The players

Rep. Al Green

A Democratic congressman representing Texas's 18th Congressional District, who is running for reelection and has criticized the crypto industry's political spending.

Protect Progress

A super PAC affiliated with the pro-crypto Fairshake network, which has announced plans to spend over $1.5 million to try to unseat Rep. Al Green.

Josh Vlasto

A spokesman for Protect Progress, who accused Rep. Green of trying to 'stop American innovation' by opposing the crypto industry.

Rep. Christian Menefee

A Democratic candidate running against Rep. Al Green in the newly drawn Texas 18th Congressional District.

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What they’re saying

“We cannot allow the crypto industry to own Congress.”

— Rep. Al Green (Facebook)

“Texas voters can no longer sit by and have representation in Congress that is actively hostile towards a growing Texas crypto community. We are committed to electing new members who embrace innovation, growth and wealth creation for all Americans.”

— Josh Vlasto, Spokesman, Protect Progress (The Hill)

What’s next

The March 3 primary election in Texas's 18th Congressional District will determine whether Rep. Al Green or his challenger, Rep. Christian Menefee, will advance to the general election.

The takeaway

This clash highlights the growing influence of the cryptocurrency industry in U.S. politics, as crypto-affiliated groups seek to shape the political landscape through major campaign spending. Rep. Green's stance reflects concerns that unchecked crypto industry influence could undermine the independence of Congress.