Despite speculation, Kamala Harris, the Democratic frontrunner for the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election, will not be speaking at the Bitcoin Conference in Nashville. David Bailey, CEO of BTC Inc. and conference organizer, confirmed her absence, hinting at the administration’s perceived hostility towards crypto as a reason. Bailey also raised the issue of Ross Ulbricht’s imprisonment, suggesting Harris should address this before engaging with the crypto community. Former President Donald Trump and candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have promised to commute Ulbricht’s sentence if elected, gaining favor among crypto enthusiasts.
Harris’ Campaign and Crypto Stance
Bailey’s team had been in talks with Harris’ campaign, but her absence was not unexpected. He cited the administration’s regulatory approach, which many in the crypto industry view as adversarial. Bailey emphasized that commuting Ulbricht’s sentence should be a prerequisite for any politician addressing the Bitcoin community, though he acknowledged that Harris, as Vice President, lacks the authority to do this personally.
Other Candidates and Their Crypto Stances
Bailey highlighted Trump and Kennedy Jr.’s commitments to commuting Ulbricht’s sentence, noting the positive reception from the crypto community. While Trump did not commute Ulbricht’s sentence during his first term, he has pledged to do so if re-elected. Kennedy Jr. has also proposed integrating Bitcoin into U.S. debt management and owns over $1 million in Bitcoin. Trump’s campaign has even begun accepting donations in various cryptocurrencies.
The Impact on Crypto Politics
Harris’ stance on digital assets remains unclear, raising questions about whether her administration would continue Biden’s regulatory approach or adopt a more crypto-friendly stance. As crypto regulation and adoption become critical political issues, Harris’ absence from the conference shifts the focus to other candidates, particularly Trump, who will address a Bitcoin audience directly.
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