A nonprofit organization connected to U.S. President Donald Trump is supporting a California Democrat’s cryptocurrency bill, highlighting a rare bipartisan moment in a deeply polarized political landscape. The legislation reflects Trump’s growing involvement in crypto policy and reveals tensions within the Democratic Party as it navigates public interest and partisan strategy.
Trump-Linked Nonprofit Backs California Democrat’s Crypto Bill
A California-based nonprofit with ties to President Donald Trump is actively supporting cryptocurrency legislation introduced by a Democratic lawmaker in the state. The Satoshi Action Fund, co-founded by Trump’s former EPA chief of staff Mandy Gunasekara, is advocating for Assemblymember Avelino Valencia’s bill to allow broader use of cryptocurrency in California commerce.
Trump’s Return Brings Crypto to the Forefront
As President Trump continues his second term, he has put cryptocurrency near the top of his domestic agenda. The 2025 Bitcoin Conference in Las Vegas showcased key Trump allies such as Senator JD Vance, reaffirming the administration’s open embrace of digital assets. Trump’s inner circle is signaling major financial investments in crypto, including a $2.5 billion Bitcoin acquisition by Trump Media & Technology Group.
A New State-Level Crypto Strategy
Unlike the traditional federal focus, the Satoshi Action Fund emphasizes a state-first approach to policy influence. CEO Dennis Porter, a former Bitcoin podcaster, noted that momentum for issues like civil rights and cannabis reform also began at the state level. The group sees California — despite its political leanings — as a strategic frontier for shaping national crypto policy from the ground up.
Democrat Valencia’s Independent Vision
Assemblymember Avelino Valencia, who chairs the Assembly Banking and Finance Committee, maintains he developed his crypto bill independently of the Satoshi Action Fund, though he acknowledges the group’s feedback was “proactively provided.” He emphasizes the bipartisan and ideologically diverse makeup of the nonprofit, distancing the bill from any overt political affiliation.
Deep-Blue California Remains Cautious
Despite the initiative, California’s legislature remains skeptical of the crypto industry. In 2023, it passed new regulations and fees targeting digital asset traders. While the current bill would authorize businesses to accept crypto without mandating it, the state’s regulatory environment poses challenges to widespread adoption.
Trump’s Influence Complicates the Debate
President Trump’s personal and political ties to crypto — including a recent private dinner with buyers of his memecoin, $TRUMP — have added complexity for Democrats. Some are hesitant to support any crypto-related policies that might be seen as political victories for Trump, despite public and industry pressure.
Future of Crypto in State Politics
The Satoshi Action Fund has already succeeded in pushing crypto legislation in red states like Montana, Louisiana, and Oklahoma. However, California represents a critical test case. If successful, Valencia’s bill could serve as a blueprint for pro-crypto legislation in other Democratic-led states, potentially influencing federal attitudes in the long term.
Final Words from Valencia
“I have no doubt this is the currency and technology of the future,” Valencia stated. He aims to ensure legal clarity and consumer protection while giving businesses the freedom to choose. The proposed bill does not compel any entity to accept digital currencies but ensures they are not penalized for doing so.
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