U.S. Think Tank Introduces Crypto-Native Talent to Strengthen Congressional Capacity on Digital Asset Legislation

BlockBeats News, May 5th, the American Innovation Project (AIP), a U.S. tech policy advocacy organization, has added two new policy researchers, with Jacob Smagula, who has a background in the crypto industry, joining Congressman Ritchie Torres' team to work on digital asset-related legislation.

Reportedly, Smagula previously worked in the government affairs team at the Bitcoin mining firm MARA and is currently involved in policy research at the DeFi Education Fund, bringing experience in the crypto industry and regulatory communication.

Established in 2025, AIP is supported by institutions such as Digital Currency Group, aiming to provide congressional members with professional knowledge and policy support on emerging technologies like AI and digital assets. This appointment is seen as a further professionalization signal for the U.S. in crypto legislation and regulation.