Senate Rejects Crypto Market Structure Bill, Blockchain Association Seeks New Leadership

The Blockchain Association is set to regain its former CEO, Kristin Smith, as interim chief executive when Summer Mersinger leaves on October 16. The Senate's failure to advance the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act with a 49-50 vote has led to this leadership change.

Smith was previously at the helm of the trade group from its launch in 2018 until 2025, and she will retain her role as president of the Solana Policy Institute while taking on the temporary position. Her departure is scheduled for October 16.

Mersinger emphasized that the vote was not the end of the association's work on consumer protections and regulatory clarity, stating 'not the end of our work' on these issues. She noted that they would continue working with lawmakers to advance their goals.