Democratic donors want Kamala Harris to appear at crypto conference
Leading Democratic contributors are advocating for Blockworks to invite Kamala Harris, the anticipated Democratic candidate for president, to its forthcoming cryptocurrency event. This comes as the cryptocurrency community shifts its focus to the upcoming U.S. presidential election, viewed by some as a critical moment for the integration of cryptocurrency into society.
In efforts to bring Vice President Harris to its politically geared Permissionless event, scheduled for October 9 to 11, Blockworks co-founder Jason Yanowitz revealed that these contributors have expressed their support. The event aims to bridge the political divide, attracting figures from both political spectra.
Yanowitz noted that although there hasn't been direct communication with Harris's campaign, the push from prominent Democratic supporters is significant.
Mike Novogratz, the CEO and founder of Galaxy Digital and an outspoken Democrat, will be present at the conference. He has been vocal about encouraging the crypto community to remain open to Harris's involvement. While Yanowitz refrained from confirming if Novogratz was facilitating a potential appearance, the initiative is clear.
On the other side, GOP Presidential nominee Donald Trump delivered a speech endorsing cryptocurrency at Bitcoin 2024 in Nashville, Tennessee, captivating certain crypto enthusiasts. Trump, formerly a critic of cryptocurrency, has reversed his stance, promising to dismiss SEC Chairman Gary Gensler upon taking office and to establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve for the U.S.
Blockworks is also in negotiations to feature both Republican and Democratic U.S. Congress members at their conference, aiming to present a bipartisan dialogue. This effort to include many of the crypto-supportive Democrats contrasts with the Republican-dominated narrative at Bitcoin 2024, according to Yanowitz. Discussions are also ongoing with RFK Jr.'s representatives.
The refusal of the Tennessee conference's invitation by Harris brought frustration among its planners and attendees.
