The Clarity Act, signed into law earlier this year with just 37% approval, includes a draft provision that bars former President Donald Trump from engaging in cryptocurrency ventures until 2029. The restriction, which applies to any crypto-related business or investment, is set to expire in three years. It's a direct hit to Trump's growing footprint in digital assets.
What the provision says
The draft language, embedded in the final version of the Clarity Act, prohibits Trump from launching, promoting, or investing in any cryptocurrency project. That covers everything from token offerings to DeFi platforms. The ban runs through the end of 2029 — no exceptions listed. The law doesn't name Trump explicitly, but the language is tailored to his known activities in the space.
Why the 2029 date
The 2029 expiration lines up with the end of the current regulatory cycle under the Act. Lawmakers who backed the provision argued it was needed to prevent conflicts of interest while Trump remains a political figure. Critics say the timing is arbitrary and politically motivated. The 37% approval rating for the overall law suggests the public is split.
Political fallout
Trump's team hasn't commented publicly on the draft provision. But the former president has been active in crypto ventures over the past few years, and this effectively freezes those plans. Supporters of the Clarity Act say the restriction is necessary to keep politics out of digital assets. Opponents call it a targeted attack. Either way, the law is now on the books.
The provision takes effect immediately. Trump's lawyers are expected to review the language for potential legal challenges, though no lawsuits have been filed yet. For now, the former president's crypto ambitions are on hold until at least 2029. The Clarity Act itself remains controversial, and this draft provision only adds to the debate.
