Bitcoin Tests $80K Support as White House Crypto Chief Exits

Bitcoin remained under pressure this week as its October rally lost momentum, leaving BTC testing key support near $80,000. The cryptocurrency is trading below its monthly opening price, with traders watching whether the latest pullback could lead to further losses.

Meanwhile, Patrick Witt announced his departure as executive director of the White House Crypto Council, adding uncertainty to US crypto policy as the CLARITY Act remains stalled in the Senate.

Elsewhere, hardware wallet maker Trezor announced plans to reduce its authorized reseller network following reports of tampered Ledger devices. The move highlights growing concerns about supply-chain security and the risks associated with third-party distributors.

1. Bitcoin tests $80,000 support as October rally fades

Bitcoin traded near $80,867 on October 15, down 3.2% from its October opening price of $83,576. The decline follows a breakdown from a rising wedge pattern, with BTC now testing critical trendline support near $80,400.

A confirmed break below this level could expose further support near $77,000, $73,500, and $70,000. However, holding above $80,400 could open the door to a rebound. Bitcoin's performance also trails its historical October average, with the cryptocurrency typically gaining 6.7% by mid-month.

2. White House crypto chief exits as CLARITY Act stalls

Patrick Witt is stepping down as executive director of the White House Crypto Council after more than a year in the Trump administration. His departure comes as the CLARITY Act remains stalled in the Senate amid disagreements between banks and crypto firms over key regulatory provisions.

Bar chart showing top 10 incidents in Sep 2026.

Witt played a central role in advancing the legislation and supporting the administration's Strategic Bitcoin Reserve initiative. With no successor announced, his exit raises questions about the direction of US crypto policy and the prospects for further regulatory progress.

3. Trezor cuts resellers following Ledger wallet security incident

Trezor announced plans to terminate authorizations for selected resellers starting January 1, 2027, following reports of tampered Ledger hardware wallets linked to Southeast Asian distributor CryptoBilis. Ledger investigators identified an unauthorized hardware implant capable of capturing wallet recovery phrases.

Blockchain investigators estimate that losses associated with the incident exceeded $86 million, although Ledger has not verified the figure. Trezor said there is no evidence its devices were compromised, describing the reseller reductions as preventive. OneKey has also cut ties with CryptoBilis as wallet manufacturers tighten distribution controls.