Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse is calling on U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris to clearly define her stance on cryptocurrency regulation. This request follows Harris's decision not to attend the Bitcoin Conference 2024, where many in the crypto community had hoped her presence might indicate a more supportive approach to digital currencies. David Bailey, the conference's CEO, confirmed her absence.
Garlinghouse emphasized the need to focus on policy rather than political biases when evaluating presidential candidates. This follows comments from Justin Slaughter, Policy Director at Paradigm, on Harris’s potential influence if she runs for president. Garlinghouse argued that political partisanship has hindered the growth of the crypto sector and called for evaluating policies over party affiliations.
Slaughter recently suggested that Harris could make significant changes if elected, including overhauling national security positions, which could impact Bitcoin and cryptocurrency regulations.
Garlinghouse’s response to Slaughter's assessment shows a mix of hope and concern. He worries that Harris might align with anti-crypto views, similar to Senator Elizabeth Warren, but appreciates her familiarity with Silicon Valley, which could help address crypto industry challenges.
With the current administration’s strict regulatory stance under SEC Chair Gary Gensler, some in the crypto community are considering Donald Trump as a potential alternative. Trump’s promises of more favorable policies for crypto resonate with those dissatisfied with current regulations. The impact of Harris’s candidacy on the crypto sector remains uncertain as the election approaches.
Mark Cuban has speculated that Harris might adopt a more business-friendly approach to Bitcoin and AI, though this has not been confirmed. Her advisors hint that she may be more open to these sectors than past policies suggest.
Garlinghouse’s call for a focus on policy rather than partisan politics reflects a growing sentiment in the crypto community.