As the inauguration of U. S. President-elect Donald Trump approaches, crypto policy groups are gearing up to influence federal regulations. Blockchain associations from eight U. S. states have formed the North American Blockchain Association (NABA) to present unified crypto policy recommendations. Lee Bratcher, president of the Texas Blockchain Council (TBC), explained that NABA formalizes cooperation between state associations while maintaining their independence. The TBC, founded by Bratcher in 2019, is funded by major players like Coinbase and Galaxy Digital, with over half of its support coming from bitcoin miners like MARA Holdings and Riot Platforms.

Bratcher expects the Trump administration to treat bitcoin miners more favorably compared to the Biden administration, which considered a 30% tax on mining. Texas, with its significant renewable energy resources, low taxes, and strong economy, has become a hub for bitcoin miners, who now consume about 3, 100 MW of power—enough for 620, 000 homes. Texas' energy mix is shaped by federal subsidies incentivizing renewable projects, making it conducive for bitcoin mining, which can adapt to fluctuating power demands. Looking ahead, Texas faces challenges related to its growing energy demand. The TBC believes the network will expand by 5% to 6% annually over the next decade. Though ERCOT, the state's grid operator, might impose new planning requirements, it's unlikely to target bitcoin miners specifically, as the increase in demand is driven by various sectors, including residential and industrial developments.