Joe Schiarizzi is 30 years old. He’s an Ethereum developer. A Democrat. And he’s running for Congress in Virginia’s 7th District.
His pitch? Crypto should build public goods. Not enrich politicians.
Schiarizzi’s worked at Consensys, Gitcoin, and OpenSea. He wants to become the first crypto developer in Congress. His targets: opportunistic lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.
He’s got blockchain-based solutions for infrastructure, healthcare, and housing.
Trump’s the Main Target
Schiarizzi saves his harshest criticism for President Donald Trump. He calls the current administration “the most corrupt in American history.” His evidence? The Trump family’s crypto ventures and meme coins.
“Crypto should fund public goods, not be a vehicle for political self-enrichment,” Schiarizzi said.
He’s framing his entire candidacy as a counter to what he sees as brazen exploitation of the industry.
His Vision: Crypto Capital for Communities
Schiarizzi’s vision centers on directing crypto capital toward community needs. He’s worked on tokenizing renewable energy to back solar farms. He proposes using blockchain for on-chain private payments to doctors. The goal: guarantee access to all kinds of medical care.
He wants stablecoin regulations rewritten. Allow reserves in municipal bonds. The shift could simultaneously secure stablecoins and channel capital into public infrastructure. Hospitals. Schools.
Taking Aim at “Pro-Crypto” Politicians
The candidate also attacks the wave of self-described pro-crypto lawmakers courting industry super PAC money.
“Many lawmakers want a check and don’t understand the tech,” Schiarizzi said.
He argues campaign funding should favor genuine builders. People seeking responsible regulation. Real-world benefits. Not politicians chasing crypto donations while undermining rights and privacy.
Policy Specifics
Schiarizzi pledges to simplify tax rules for everyday crypto users. He’d carve out legal exemptions for common crypto tools. His focus: smaller projects. Not institutional players.
Beyond blockchain, he leads a YIMBY housing movement. He calls rapid housing expansion vital. Costs are “tearing apart” society.
The Race
Schiarizzi faces a crowded Democratic primary. A state senator. A state delegate. A former governor’s wife. The district’s boundaries remain uncertain. Redistricting’s pending.
Still, his campaign offers a test. Will voters embrace a candidate who links crypto to public goods and housing reform?
He’s accepting donations in Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDC, Fartcoin, and Trump’s own meme coin.
