Justin Sun Defends TRUMP Memecoin Amid Regulatory Scrutiny

• Critics allege TRUMP memecoin acts as political bribery; Sun dismisses claims as misguided.
• Sun defends memecoins, calling them valid crypto tools that help onboard new users globally.
• Over $111M was spent by top-25 TRUMP holders for VIP access and exclusive event perks.

Tron founder Justin Sun dismissed accusations of bribery tied to his investment in the TRUMP memecoin. After a high-profile dinner hosted by Donald Trump for top token holders, Sun said the criticisms were “short-sighted” and insisted the initiative signals a shift in U.S. crypto policy. 

The event, held at Trump National Golf Club in Virginia, was attended by the largest holders of the $TRUMP token, including many outside the United States.

During the dinner, Sun pointed out that the Biden administration’s approach prompted many crypto entrepreneurs to relocate to more favorable jurisdictions. However, he said that Trump’s support for crypto now encourages firms and investors to remain in the United States. Sun’s involvement with Trump’s affiliated crypto ventures dates back to last year, when he purchased $75 million worth of World Liberty Financial tokens.

Political Criticism Intensifies as Lawmakers Scrutinize Crypto Ties

The $TRUMP token gala attracted global crypto investors who spent a reported $148 million to attend. Sun ranked first with an $18.5 million wallet, earning him a VIP position at the dinner. 

Trump’s event attracted visitors from many countries, with the top 25 TRUMP coin holders spending approximately  $111 million to get VIP passes. Some participants were offered a private cocktail reception and a limited-edition Trump watch. Blockchain analysis also noted that more than half of the 220 attendees reside outside the U.S, leading to more concern about foreign interest.

Democratic officials criticized the summit based on concerns about transparency and ethics. Most of the participants were visiting the country from abroad. Senator Elizabeth Warren and other lawmakers inquired if the funds raised by Trump’s campaign with cryptocurrencies were legal and accused Trump of using public office to profit from his crypto business. However, a White House spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt, stated that President Trump had placed all his assets in a blind trust.

Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA) also introduced the “Stop TRUMP in Crypto Act of 2025” just before the event, which would require presidents and those connected to them by family not to hold or profit from crypto.

Sun Backs Memecoins as a Legitimate Segment of Crypto Innovation

The TRUMP memecoin has generated considerable profits for large investors, while smaller holders have faced heavy losses. Based on blockchain analysis, more than 60 large wallets made $1.5 billion from the token due to Trump promoting the contest on social media. Meanwhile, about 600,000 smaller wallets have experienced losses of about $4 billion, which has sparked accusations of market manipulation and unfair advantage.

Despite the criticism, Justin Sun insisted that memecoins have recognition as legitimate participants in the digital asset industry. In response, Sun said coins like DOGE and SHIB had brought users into the crypto space and demonstrated real-world utility. According to Sun, meme coins form a valid part of the evolving digital economy. 

Related: GD Culture Group Plans $300M Investment in Bitcoin and $TRUMP Coin

He stated that Tron’s vision includes supporting all areas of crypto, from serious projects to community tokens. He argued that market dynamics determine success or failure, just like in any other entrepreneurial sector. “It’s just like doing business,” he said.