Will Kamala Harris Lose Crypto Votes in US Election 2024?

Is Trump’s Pro-Crypto Stance the Key to Victory?

Will Martin
Coinmonks
Published in
6 min readJul 29, 2024

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Kamala Harris, who is a strong candidate for the Democratic nomination, has never openly discussed cryptocurrency or blockchain.

However, her private comments and connections to Silicon Valley suggest that she might adopt a more positive approach to crypto than President Biden.

The Biden Administration’s Tough Crypto Stance

The Biden administration has been quite harsh when it comes to cryptocurrencies. Here’s a quick rundown of their actions:

  • Binance: The company faced a massive fine of $4.3 billion, and its CEO, Changpeng Zhao, is dealing with legal troubles.
  • Kraken: This crypto exchange was fined $30 million.
  • Coinbase: The SEC has threatened legal action against them.

These actions have led many in the crypto community to feel uneasy about the Democrats’ intentions regarding digital currencies.

Harris’s Strong Connections in the Tech World

Despite the party’s tough stance, Kamala Harris has significant ties to the tech industry:

  • Former Attorney General of California: Her legal background gives her valuable insights into regulations.
  • Close Relationships with Silicon Valley: These connections might help her understand the needs of the crypto sector better.
  • Support from Key Industry Figures: Endorsements from leaders like Sheryl Sandberg (Meta) and Reed Hastings (Netflix) suggest she could align with technological innovations.

Could these ties influence her views on cryptocurrencies?

Interest from Influential Figures

Mark Cuban, the American billionaire, revealed that Harris’s team reached out to him, showing interest in the world of cryptocurrencies. He noted, “She will be more open to business, AI, cryptocurrencies, and government as a service.” However, there has been no official confirmation of this interest.

Uncertainties Around Harris’s Position

Despite the positive signs, several uncertainties linger:

  • No Official Crypto Statements: Her silence on the issue raises concerns.
  • Missing the Bitcoin Conference in Nashville: This absence may signal a lack of commitment.
  • Rumored Anti-Bitcoin Comments: If true, these remarks could erode trust in her potential to support crypto.

Many in the crypto community, like Tyler Winklevoss, remain skeptical. Is their caution warranted?

Trump Takes the Lead

Meanwhile, Donald Trump is making strides in the crypto space:

  • Accepting Bitcoin Donations: This move positions him as a crypto-friendly candidate.
  • Backed by Influential Figures: Support from Cathie Wood and Elon Musk enhances his credibility.
  • J.D. Vance as VP: A pro-Bitcoin advocate as a running mate shows a commitment to the crypto agenda.
  • Promises to Embrace Cryptocurrencies: Trump aims to prevent brain drain by fostering innovation in the sector.

Trump’s Bitcoin Address Highlights

  1. Historic Moment: Trump proudly announced he’s the first sitting president to speak at a Bitcoin event!
  2. Gratitude to the Bitcoin Community: He thanked the Bitcoin community for their incredible achievements.
  3. Bitcoin’s Rise: Trump celebrated Bitcoin’s transformation from an idea to the ninth most valuable asset, even beating big names like ExxonMobil!
  4. America’s Tech Future: He warned that if the U.S. doesn’t embrace crypto, China will take the lead in technology and manufacturing.
  5. Critique of Biden: Trump slammed the Biden administration for its anti-crypto stance and vowed to reverse these policies if elected.
  6. Backing Crypto: He promised to end the SEC’s “war” on cryptocurrency, ensuring the industry is protected from overreach.

Plans for Change:

  • New SEC Leadership: He would fire SEC Chair Gary Gensler and appoint a crypto-friendly replacement.
  • Advisory Council: He plans to create a Bitcoin advisory council for clearer regulations.
  • Ending Crypto Targeting: He’d put an end to policies that hurt crypto businesses.
  • Personal Touch: Trump shared family ties to MIT and praised the brilliance of the Bitcoin community.
  • Get Involved: He urged attendees to vote, stressing how important the upcoming election is for crypto’s future.
  • Recognizing Leaders: Trump acknowledged key players in the Bitcoin space, including the Winklevoss twins and Michael Saylor.
  • Support for Bitcoin Industry: He committed to promoting property rights, privacy, and freedom in transactions for Bitcoin.
  • Stablecoin Framework: Trump suggested a plan to responsibly grow stablecoins, keeping the U.S. dollar strong.
  • Criticism of Inflation: He blamed the Biden administration for rising inflation and its effects on American cities.
  • Economic Boom Ahead: Trump promised a “Trump economic boom” with tax cuts and less regulation.
  • Energy Independence: He pledged to make the U.S. the cheapest energy provider, fueling Bitcoin growth.
  • Bitcoin Mining Power: Trump envisioned the U.S. as a global Bitcoin mining leader, reducing reliance on foreign energy.
  • National Bitcoin Asset: He revealed the U.S. government holds Bitcoin and plans to keep it as a national asset.
  • Ross Ulbricht’s Sentence: Trump promised to commute the sentence of Ross Ulbricht, advocating for justice in the crypto space.
  • Pro-Innovation Leadership: He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting innovation and the Bitcoin industry.
  • American Dream Revival: Trump aimed to restore the American Dream for all citizens through crypto.
  • Hope for the Future: He concluded with an inspiring call for unity to build a stronger America and Bitcoin industry.

Can the Democrats catch up?

What Could a Harris Presidency Mean for Crypto?

If Kamala Harris becomes president, we might see significant changes in the crypto landscape:

  • Reforming Crypto Taxation: Simplifying tax regulations could encourage more people to adopt cryptocurrencies.
  • Clarifying Securities Laws: Clearer regulations would help the industry grow.
  • Updating Banking Regulations: Modernizing these laws can support innovation.
  • Strengthening Consumer Protections: Better protections for investors can build trust in the market.
  • Introducing New Data Privacy Laws: Protecting user data is crucial in today’s digital age.

Additionally, we could expect initiatives like:

  • Integrating Crypto Education into Schools: Preparing students for a digital economy is vital.
  • Allocating Federal Funds for Blockchain Research: Supporting innovation through research funding.
  • Promoting DeFi Platforms for Financial Inclusion: Expanding access to financial services for all.
  • Creating Public-Private Partnerships: Encouraging collaboration between different sectors.
  • Harmonizing International Regulations: Making it easier for crypto businesses to operate globally.

Market Reactions on Kamala Harris

Cameron warned, “Beware of the Big Bluff.” Vice President Kamala Harris is urged to take decisive action to rebuild trust with the crypto industry. Past neglect has led to skepticism, and words alone won’t suffice.

Coach K Crypto pointed out the contradictions in Vice President Kamala Harris’s stance on Bitcoin: she praises it, then calls it a tool for criminals, and now seeks to “reset” relations with crypto companies.

2024 Presidential Election Update: Trump vs. Kamala!

According to the latest data from Polymarket:

  • Donald Trump: Leading with 60% probability of winning! 🏆
  • Kamala Harris: Following with 38% chance! 📉

With the election season heating up, will Trump maintain his lead, or can Kamala turn the tide?

Kamala Harris could offer a fresh perspective on cryptocurrencies if she becomes president. However, her unclear stance on crypto might cost her support from crypto voters in the 2024 election.

In contrast, Trump’s pro-crypto agenda could attract significant backing, giving him a potential edge.

Ultimately, much will depend on Harris’s public stance and the evolving political landscape. As the race progresses, the crypto community will be closely watching to see how things unfold!

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Will Martin
Coinmonks

Catching the latest trends in #crypto, tracking prices, researching #blockchain, and exploring the potential of this #Defi.