Vice President Harris's Potential Crypto Stance Draws Speculation

Rumors that Vice President Kamala Harris considered attending the Bitcoin 2024 conference have ignited discussions about a potential shift in the Democratic Party’s approach to cryptocurrency. Although the rumor was eventually debunked, sources close to the matter revealed that Harris's team gave the invitation "serious consideration."

A Possible Shift in Policy?

This news surprised many, given the current administration's generally hostile stance towards cryptocurrency. An anonymous crypto lobbyist and former White House advisor told Fortune, "She doesn't have a lot of time to redefine herself." The source suggested that Harris might use crypto policy to differentiate herself from President Joe Biden, potentially embracing tech and digital assets more openly.

Harris's background as a senator from California, where she developed strong relationships with tech industry leaders, adds another layer to the speculation. Gary DeWaal, a former senior trial attorney at the CFTC, noted, "[She] developed good relations with tech industry leaders."

Engagement with the Crypto Community

Further fueling the speculation, businessman Mark Cuban reportedly received multiple inquiries about crypto from Harris' camp. This outreach suggests a level of interest and engagement that contrasts sharply with the current administration's approach.

However, experts caution against jumping to conclusions. DeWaal believes Harris is unlikely to make any definitive statements on crypto before Aug. 7, when she's expected to announce her vice-presidential pick.

What's Next for Crypto Policy?

The evolving stance of political figures like Harris on cryptocurrency is a topic of great interest as the industry seeks clarity on future regulatory frameworks. The upcoming Benzinga Future of Digital Assets event on Nov. 19 in New York City will provide a platform for industry leaders and policymakers to discuss these developments and their implications for the future of digital assets in the United States. The event will gather digital asset companies and institutional investors for extensive networking opportunities, including 4,000 one-on-one meetings and executive roundtables.

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