Former U.S. House Financial Services Committee Chairman Patrick McHenry said the cryptocurrency industry needs durable political influence and continued congressional support to protect regulatory gains from potential reversals. He pointed to the strict regulatory approach associated with Gary Gensler as a possible model for a future shift. His comments come as Democrats gain control of both chambers of Congress, potentially reshaping U.S. cryptocurrency oversight. The CLARITY Act’s failure to pass the Senate earlier this year left comprehensive crypto market-structure legislation stalled, adding uncertainty for market participants. Current pricing reflects some optimism about a more favorable regulatory environment, including a slight increase in the perceived likelihood of Bitcoin reaching significant price thresholds by year-end. Market participants are watching congressional handling of crypto rules, the durability of bipartisan support and the effect of industry engagement on sentiment and Bitcoin projections.