Barry Moore, a Republican congressman and Donald Trump loyalist, won the Alabama GOP primary on Tuesday — a victory bankrolled by $12 million from a crypto-focused political action committee. The spending makes Moore the single largest recipient of crypto-industry money in the 2022 midterm cycle so far, and the result is being read as a clear signal of the sector's growing muscle in Washington.
The crypto money behind Moore
The PAC — one of several backed by crypto executives and investors — poured the cash into ads, mailers, and door-knocking for Moore in a competitive primary. Moore has been a reliable vote for pro-crypto legislation and a vocal ally of Trump, who himself has flirted with digital assets. The $12 million figure dwarfs what any other candidate has drawn from the industry this year, underscoring a deliberate strategy: bet early and big on loyal allies.
The crypto industry has spent heavily this election cycle to build relationships on Capitol Hill, often backing candidates who favor lighter regulation. Moore's win shows that money can deliver results in a primary. That’s no small thing — the sector has faced regulatory headwinds from the SEC and Treasury, and having a core of committed supporters in Congress could help shape future legislation. Moore drew more crypto dollars than any other candidate in the 2022 midterms so far, a stat that rivals and trade groups will be watching closely.
What’s next
Moore now advances to the general election in November, where he’s heavily favored in the deep-red district. The crypto PAC that backed him hasn't signaled whether it will spend again in the fall, but the primary win already justifies the investment for its donors. For now, the industry has its proof of concept: big money can swing a primary, and a Trump loyalist with crypto backing is one step closer to returning to the House floor.
