Debate Over the CLARITY Act Intensifies
Tensions between two leading figures in the cryptocurrency space have escalated after Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson publicly criticized Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse over his support for the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act (the CLARITY Act). Hoskinson’s comments, which came at a pivotal time for US crypto regulation, have sparked significant debate, not only among their followers but also within the broader crypto community.
Hoskinson Blames Political Climate for Bill’s Struggles
Hoskinson, who has been a vocal skeptic of the current regulatory environment, expressed strong doubts about the potential for the CLARITY Act to succeed. He argued that the bill’s chances of passing were diminishing due to the political landscape in Washington. According to Hoskinson, the momentum it once had is now under threat, primarily due to external political factors and the involvement of controversial figures.
How about focusing on helping shape the Clarity Bill instead of crashing out on Brad for no reason, Charles? pic.twitter.com/3jDHUiEbNp
— Vet (@Vet_X0) January 18, 2026
In particular, Hoskinson placed blame on David Sacks, the crypto czar appointed by the Trump administration. He criticized Sacks for failing to maintain bipartisan support for the bill, citing the launch of a Trump-branded meme coin as a major factor that turned what should have been a neutral legislative issue into a partisan one. Hoskinson warned that if the bill fails to pass, Sacks should resign, calling it a matter of accountability.
Garlinghouse’s Optimism vs. Industry Skepticism
On the other side of the debate, Garlinghouse has emerged as one of the bill’s strongest advocates. He believes that, despite its imperfections, having any regulatory framework is better than remaining in a state of uncertainty.
Garlinghouse has positioned himself as a regulatory optimist, arguing that the industry needs some form of structure to operate under, even if it’s not the perfect solution. This stance has put him at odds with other influential figures, such as Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong, who shares Hoskinson’s concerns about the bill’s effectiveness.
The fallout from this disagreement has not been limited to public statements. Ripple and Cardano fans have picked sides, with some criticizing Hoskinson for his pessimism and others applauding his caution.
While Garlinghouse’s optimism has garnered support from those eager for regulatory clarity, Hoskinson’s criticism has struck a chord with those who feel the current political environment may derail genuine reform.
This public dispute highlights the increasing polarization within the crypto community regarding US regulations. With President Donald Trump and his administration’s involvement in crypto policy, the industry’s future seems more uncertain than ever. As the debate rages on, the fate of the CLARITY Act remains unclear, and its potential impact on the future of digital assets is a hot topic of discussion.