New Jersey’s 2025 governor’s race has entered a new realm—crypto in New Jersey election discourse—with blockchain regulation and digital lobbying playing starring roles. As the state heads into primaries, U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer, Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, and radio host Bill Spadea spoke at a Stand With Crypto event, underlining how digital asset policy is reshaping local politics.
Crypto Campaigning Takes Off
Crypto wades into New Jersey’s governor race
On June 5, the cryptocurrency regulation campaign funding crypto lobbying political influence digital asset policy US elections movement came to Jersey City via a rally at White Eagle Hall, backed by Stand With Crypto. The event drew over 3,000 attendees—and significant media attention.
Democrat Steven Fulop, whose Jersey City pension fund shifted partially into Bitcoin ETFs, told the crowd: “Cryptocurrency is an important part of the future of this country and the economic system of the world” . Fellow Democrat Josh Gottheimer, carrying more than $240,000 in crypto PAC donations, also affirmed state-level crypto engagement. Republican Bill Spadea echoed support: “I support crypto… blockchain technology reforming and revamping our government” .
While not the top concern for voters, the crypto policy divide is clear—wealthy digital asset advocates are lobbying hard, hoping to influence everything from blockchain regulation to pension fund investment flexibility.
Digital Dollars in Primary Campaigns
Stand With Crypto, partially funded by Coinbase, Exodus, and MoonPay, reports over 60,000 New Jersey supporters. The advocacy group has even sponsored debates in both parties .
Additionally, Fairshake PAC contributed more than $240,000 to Gottheimer’s 2024 U.S. House race. Industry insiders see the campaign funding crypto lobbying political influence digital asset policy US elections angle at state level as a natural evolution of federal success.
A Just Crypto report shows that these state-level activities may serve as a testing ground for future policy, particularly around crypto campaign finance regulation and political donations in digital assets.
State vs. Federal Crypto Policy
New Jersey’s governor could shape how blockchain regulation evolves at state level—encompassing pension fund allocations, fintech licensing, and digital asset infrastructure.
In contrast to federal delays on stablecoin oversight in Congress, New Jersey may become a test case for state-level crypto law. A victory for crypto-backed candidates would embolden other states to follow suit.
Still, Politico notes, although “Stand With Crypto’s investment … has elevated cryptocurrency policy,” the issue is not yet a major voter concern . Yet, in this low-turnout primary, even small election blocs can deliver results.
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Broader Election Dynamics
The crypto-driven messaging is layered over a typical New Jersey ballot crowded with familiar candidates and issues: housing, taxes, and Trump backlash. Reuters reports Mikie Sherrill, Ras Baraka, and security-conscious contenders are also vying for the Democratic nomination, while Republicans rally around Jack Ciattarelli, endorsed by Trump .
Nevertheless, the digital asset policy divide appears unusually visible this cycle, as blockchain lobbyists pour resources into local offices.
Mechanisms of Influence: PACs, Pension Funds, & Regulation
- Campaign Contributions: Crypto PACs like Fairshake financially back candidates ready to champion blockchain reform.
- Policy Pledges: Fulop and Gottheimer pledge to support state regulation and public-sector crypto investments.
- Debate Sponsorships: Stand With Crypto has sponsored both party debates and rallies via tokenized outreach and musical acts.
- Educational Outreach: Advocates hope to emerge with regulatory wins like pension fund allocations or a NJ fintech sandbox.
Why It Matters
If the crypto policy divide influences a gubernatorial race outcome, the implications ripple outward:
- Other states will mimic its approach to blockchain and crypto legislation.
- Campaign finance rules may adapt to include or restrict digital asset contributions.
- Public pension portfolios could take risks with Bitcoin, Ethereum, or tokenized assets—setting controversial precedents.
As blockchain regulation campaign funding crypto lobbying political influence digital asset policy US elections grow state-level attention, New Jersey could pivot from pilot to precedent.
Final Take: Crypto on the Ballot
Although deeply technical, crypto in New Jersey election discourse is emerging as a legitimate and divisive public policy topic. Whether concerns over housing and crime still dominate, the digital asset policy advocates are already making waves.
If a crypto-friendly candidate prevails, New Jersey may enter a new era where governors shape token law and blockchain framework—propelling state-level crypto law into actionable innovation.
