Summer Mersinger Will Leave Blockchain Association After CLARITY Vote Fails
Mersinger will step down as CEO on Oct. 16, with former chief executive Kristin Smith returning as interim leader.
Summer Mersinger will leave the Blockchain Association at the end of 2026 after the crypto policy group’s legislative priority, the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, failed to advance in the Senate.
Mersinger will step down as CEO on Oct. 16, when former chief executive Kristin Smith will return to lead the organization on an interim basis. The association announced the leadership transition Friday.
The CLARITY Act failed to secure enough votes in a Senate cloture motion earlier this month. The setback could leave the legislation in limbo until 2027.
Mersinger joined the Blockchain Association in June 2025 after leaving the Commodity Futures Trading Commission during her second term. During her tenure, the group highlighted work on the GENIUS Act and efforts to provide regulatory clarity at the Securities and Exchange Commission and CFTC.
Smith will serve as interim CEO when Mersinger steps down on Oct. 16.
