Harris Pledges to Support Crypto Investors at Meeting

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris is continuing her push to connect with the cryptocurrency community as part of her “Opportunity Economy” platform.

On October 14, Harris is set to meet with Black entrepreneurs in Erie, Pennsylvania. Her agenda includes discussing the importance of supporting Black-owned small businesses, navigating cryptocurrency and digital asset regulation, and advocating for the federal legalization of cannabis.

Opportunity Economy Focus

Cedric Richmond, co-chair of the Harris campaign, explained that this push is part of Harris’ broader “Opportunity Economy” commitment, per a statement to a New Hampshire NPR affiliate. Richmond emphasized that Harris aims to win the support of Black men by creating an economy that empowers them to thrive—whether it’s through homeownership, starting businesses, or building generational wealth.

He stated: “Vice President Harris is committed to ensuring Black men are equipped with the tools to succeed—whether that’s buying a home, providing for their families, or building wealth.”

Source: kamalaharris.com

Softening Stance on Crypto?

While Harris has previously been viewed as aligned with an anti-crypto sentiment in Washington, her approach seems to be shifting. As reported by Cointelegraph, Ripple co-founder Chris Larsen recently donated $1 million worth of XRP to the Harris-Walz 2024 campaign, signaling growing optimism about her stance on crypto.

Some in the industry now see Harris as a candidate open to bipartisan solutions for regulating cryptocurrency and digital assets. However, not everyone is convinced of this so-called “crypto pivot.”

In contrast to campaign speculation, official documents related to her Erie event highlight her commitment to protecting cryptocurrency ownership rather than restricting it. The campaign materials state that Harris will advocate for regulations that ensure “Black men who invest in and own these assets are protected.”

Source: kamalaharris.com

Regulatory Framework and Black Investors

Harris is expected to unveil her support for a regulatory framework tailored to digital assets in Erie. According to her campaign’s announcement on Monday, her speech will lay out plans to help ensure that Black men—and others who participate in the crypto market—are protected under a more defined legal structure.

The campaign also noted that Harris is keenly aware that over 20% of Black Americans currently own or have owned cryptocurrency. Her proposed regulations aim to ensure these individuals benefit from fair oversight and are safeguarded from potential risks in the market.

The press release emphasized: “Vice President Harris understands how emerging technologies can open access to banking and financial services,” before reaffirming her intent to support a regulatory framework to protect investors in digital assets.

Crypto Campaign Comparisons

While Harris has made limited references to crypto throughout her campaign—mostly using terms like “digital assets” and “blockchain” sparingly—her stance contrasts with former President Donald Trump. Trump has made direct appeals to the crypto industry, including promises to install crypto-friendly regulators and establish a “Bitcoin and Crypto Advisory Council” during Bitcoin Nashville, an industry conference.

Trump even made headlines last month when he visited PubKey, a Bitcoin bar in New York City, and bought burgers using Bitcoin with assistance from the staff.

Crypto in the 2024 Election

Polls continue to show a growing interest in crypto among voters. A Harris Poll (unrelated to the vice president) funded by Grayscale revealed that 77% of likely voters expect candidates to be knowledgeable about cryptocurrency, with 21% of respondents stating they hold some form of crypto.

As Harris and her competitors navigate the race, it’s clear that cryptocurrency’s role in the economy—and its place in the political landscape—will be a key talking point.