Although cryptocurrency emerged partly as a response to the failures and misconduct of traditional banks during the 2008 financial crisis, nearly two decades later, the public remains unconvinced by that narrative. According to a new poll commissioned by Decryptnews, Americans continue to favor the conventional financial system for their banking needs.

In an online survey asking participants to choose between banks and crypto regarding financial inclusion, 65% expressed trust in banks, while only 5% favored cryptocurrency. While a slight majority (52%) acknowledge that crypto is more than a temporary trend, 60% believe it will ultimately have a negative impact on the economy.

These findings come from a survey of 1,000 randomly selected U.S. voters conducted last week by Public Opinion Strategies. The poll aims to capture public sentiment as cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence issues navigate through Congress, federal regulators, and political campaigns leading up to this year’s congressional midterm elections.

This article is part of a Decryptnews series on voters’ views for the 2026 midterm election.

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This perception of banks being safer than crypto arises at a critical juncture for the industry, as its lobbyists compete with the banking sector over the most significant legislative goal: the Senate’s Digital Asset Market Clarity Act. Banks contend that stablecoin rewards could directly compete with their interest-bearing deposit accounts, potentially threatening a migration that could hinder U.S. lending. Their arguments have delayed the Clarity Act for months, but recent developments suggest the bill may resume progress in the coming days.

Despite public skepticism, cryptocurrency has rapidly integrated itself into U.S. financial life and culture. Approximately one in four people report having invested in crypto (27%), though most did so several years ago, and only 2% hold more than $10,000 in digital assets.

Public perception of the industry remains largely unimproved by recent news coverage, with 53% reporting a less favorable impression. Those who support crypto tend to focus on its profit potential, while skeptics highlight the scams associated with the sector.

About 46% of respondents have no interest in crypto and do not wish to engage with it, leaving 27% who have not yet invested but might be open to it. Negative views are most prevalent among individuals over 45, with distrust increasing with age. Males, Republicans, and minority groups show the strongest affinity for crypto, according to the data.

The AI question

Similar to crypto, AI also faces significant distrust from older respondents, while younger demographics hold more mixed views.

Overall, 55% believe the risks of AI technology outweigh its benefits. However, younger demographics, males, and Republicans are slightly more supportive of its advancements, mirroring their stance on digital assets. Crypto holders are even more likely to support AI’s benefits, with 64% saying its pursuit is worth the risks.

While U.S. corporations have widely adopted AI across various business aspects, new data on public perception reveals a negative perception gap that emerging technologies must bridge for mass acceptance. The crypto industry hopes that its eventual inclusion in U.S. financial regulation will foster wider acceptance and provide comfort to those concerned about oversight. This process, however, depends on a deeply divided Congress and the deliberate pace of federal regulators like the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Nevertheless, key regulators appointed by crypto-supporting President Donald Trump have pledged to expedite the integration of digital assets into the mainstream. Key senators have also suggested the Clarity Act will finally receive the necessary hearing in May, potentially keeping it viable for passage in 2026.

Decryptnews will release data from this survey on Tuesday at Consensus Miami.