U.S. lawmakers are prioritizing a digital asset market structure bill following the end of the longest government shutdown, potentially influencing the 2026 midterm elections. The Senate Banking and Agriculture Committees have released a draft of the Responsible Financial Innovation Act, which builds on the House-passed CLARITY Act. With limited time before the current Congress ends in 2027, the bill's passage remains uncertain. Senator Cynthia Lummis aims for committee approval by November and enactment by 2026, though delays are possible due to the recent shutdown and some Democratic opposition. Senator Thom Tillis has urged for a push in early 2026 to avoid midterm disruptions. The crypto industry's growing influence, as seen in the 2024 elections, could shape voter preferences in 2026, with Stand With Crypto noting that 274 'crypto-friendly' candidates were elected last year. The Senate Banking and Agriculture Committees have yet to schedule a vote on the bill.