A group of Democratic lawmakers and 2024 candidates is urging the Democratic National Committee (DNC) to adopt a more supportive stance on digital assets, following Vice President Kamala Harris’s emergence as a potential presidential nominee.
In a letter to DNC Chair Jaime Harrison, 14 House members and 14 candidates from various districts called for the party to shift its perceived negative attitude towards cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology.
The letter, signed by Representatives Ro Khanna, Wiley Nickel, and Ritchie Torres among others, emphasized the need for a “forward-looking approach” to these technologies.
The lawmakers argued that the party’s current image regarding digital assets is largely negative due to the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) stance under Chair Gary Gensler.
They believe this does not align with the party’s progressive and inclusive values. “We believe this previous hostility does not reflect our Party’s progressive, forward-looking, and inclusive values.
A refreshed leader of the ticket represents an opportunity to change that perception,” the letter stated.
The signatories also suggested that the Democratic Party should champion digital innovation to maintain the United States’ leadership in the global digital economy.
They urged the DNC to include pro-digital asset language in its platform, similar to the Republican National Committee’s recent moves to support Bitcoin mining and oppose a central bank digital currency.
Furthermore, the group hinted that Harris should consider a running mate with expertise in digital asset policy if she becomes the presidential candidate.
While Harris has not announced her choice, potential candidates reportedly include Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly.
The letter coincides with bipartisan participation in the Bitcoin 2024 conference in Nashville, where lawmakers from both parties, including Republicans and Democrats, are discussing the future of digital currencies.
On July 27, former President Donald Trump is set to speak at the conference, outlining his plans for Bitcoin should he return to the White House.
