Pro-crypto lawyer John Deaton will face off against Senator Elizabeth Warren in a debate on October 15, marking their first direct confrontation in the race for the Massachusetts Senate. Deaton, the Republican nominee, confirmed the debate, though it remains unclear if cryptocurrency will be part of the agenda.
Deaton has been a vocal critic of Warren, accusing her of favoring big banks despite her previous stance against them. On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), he pointed out Warren’s shift from demanding punishment for bankers involved in the 2008 financial crisis to supporting their bailout. He claims this is a stark contrast to her early promises to hold them accountable. According to Deaton, the same bankers she once condemned now influence her legislative work.
Deaton has challenged Warren to five single-issue debates, including topics such as immigration, the economy, and women’s reproductive rights, but it’s uncertain if all of these will be addressed. Warren’s team has confirmed two debates, but the exact issues remain unclear, and cryptocurrency may or may not be discussed.
Deaton’s Senate bid comes amid Warren’s consistent opposition to cryptocurrencies. She has emerged as a leading critic of the industry, at one point calling for the formation of an “anti-crypto army.” Meanwhile, Deaton, a staunch advocate for Ripple and other crypto firms facing legal challenges, has secured the backing of key figures in the crypto space, including Gemini co-founders Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss and the Commonwealth Unity Fund PAC.
Despite Deaton’s support from the crypto community, Warren remains the overwhelming favorite to win the upcoming Senate race. Betting platforms like Polymarket give Warren a 97% chance of securing a third term, while Deaton lags far behind with only a 3% chance.
This debate offers both candidates an opportunity to present their positions on critical issues affecting voters, but it remains to be seen how central cryptocurrency will be to their discussion.
