YEREVAN (CoinChapter.com) — Vice President Kamala Harris promoted her “Opportunity Agenda” during a campaign speech on Monday evening but provided little insight into what it would mean for crypto assets. Earlier in the day, the campaign released the broad agenda, which marked Harris’s first notable policy stance on cryptocurrencies. However, for those expecting more clarity during her speech in Erie, Pa., the details were lacking.
Promises Without Policy: Harris’s Crypto Framework Lacks Details
Harris’s “Opportunity Agenda for Black Men,” published on her campaign website, proposes pro-crypto regulations aimed at addressing financial challenges within the African-American community. With 20% of Black Americans reportedly involved in cryptocurrency, Harris frames digital asset regulation as a step toward economic empowerment. However, despite the announcement, the specifics on how this regulatory framework would operate remain unclear.
Trump’s Active Crypto Engagement: From Advisory Promises to Bitcoin Burger Buys
Unlike Kamala Harris, who has largely remained quiet on cryptocurrency, Donald Trump has actively engaged with the crypto community. He has made several promises, including the appointment of a “bitcoin and crypto advisory council” during a speech at the Bitcoin Nashville conference.
Just last month, Trump made headlines when he visited PubKey, a Bitcoin-themed bar in New York City. There, he bought burgers using bitcoin, with the help of the bar’s staff, showcasing his continued involvement with the crypto industry.
Trump’s actions may seem like a stronger commitment to crypto, but they also raise a question: Is this genuine, or simply another strategy to attract votes? While Trump has been more vocal about his crypto stance, it remains to be seen if these promises will turn into meaningful policies or if they are simply part of his broader re-election campaign.
Harris vs. Trump: Crypto Policies and Voter Sentiment in the 2024 Election
Several polls commissioned by the crypto industry have measured voters’ interest in the sector. A Harris Poll, funded by crypto asset manager Grayscale, found that 77% of likely voters want candidates to be knowledgeable about cryptocurrency. Additionally, 21% of respondents reported owning at least some crypto.
With polling showing Harris trailing among Black male voters compared to Joe Biden in 2020, the campaign’s decision to lean on cryptocurrency regulation as a central strategy may not be sufficient. Voters may require more detailed assurances to feel confident in Harris’s ability to deliver on these promises.
As the polls remain tight, the Harris campaign is working to regain support in this area.
VanEck has noted that both candidates’ potential victories could benefit the sector. However, Harris’s position on crypto remains less clear than Trump’s, as she has made fewer concrete commitments to the industry.
Does Crypto Really Matter to These Candidates?
At this point, both Harris and Trump appear to be using crypto to appeal to specific voter groups. However, neither candidate has provided enough detail to give the crypto community confidence in their policies. Arthur Hayes, co-founder of BitMEX, stated that the outcome of the election may not make much difference for the crypto industry.
Hayes pointed out that powerful institutions like JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs hold significant influence over government agencies. This entrenched power could prevent either candidate from making real changes, no matter what they promise during the campaign.
As a result, the crypto community may end up disappointed, no matter who wins. Both candidates have discussed the need for regulatory reform, but neither has shown a real commitment to overcoming the strong institutional forces that shape U.S. financial policy. The lingering question is whether crypto is truly a priority for them or just another talking point in a heated election race.
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