US Policy Organization Introduces Crypto Background Talent to Strengthen Congressional Digital Asset Legislation

On May 5, the American Innovation Project (AIP), a U.S. technology policy initiative, added two policy researchers, including Jacob Smagula, who has a background in the crypto industry, to Congressman Ritchie Torres’s team to participate in digital asset-related legislative work. Smagula previously worked in the government affairs team of Bitcoin mining company MARA and is currently engaged in policy research at the DeFi Education Fund, possessing experience in communication between the crypto industry and regulators. Established in 2025 and supported by organizations such as the Digital Currency Group, AIP aims to provide congressional members with professional insights and policy support on emerging technologies like AI and digital assets. This appointment is seen as a signal of further professionalization in U.S. crypto legislation and regulation.