Kamala Harris gains notable support from Ripple co-founder, top execs despite crypto policy silence
On September 6, 2024, Ripple co-founder Chris Larsen and 87 other influential figures endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for the U.S. presidency, as reported by CNBC.
This notable endorsement includes prominent names such as Box CEO Aaron Levie, Yelp CEO Jeremy Stoppelman, philanthropist Lynn Forester de Rothschild, and Twilio co-founder Jeff Lawson.
The letter, which aims to bolster Harris’s profile ahead of the upcoming presidential debate, argues that her leadership would enhance democratic values and ensure a stable economic environment. The signatories stress that Harris would uphold the rule of law and create a conducive business atmosphere.
Larsen’s support is particularly significant given Ripple’s longstanding focus on blockchain technology and its history of supporting candidates favourable to the crypto sector. Ripple has been a major contributor to Fairshake, a super PAC advocating for pro-crypto policies.
Interestingly, despite this endorsement, Harris has not yet articulated her position on cryptocurrency regulations. This lack of clarity contrasts with the crypto community’s generally favourable view of former President Donald Trump, known for his supportive stance on digital assets.
Larsen’s endorsement hints at a strategic move to influence Harris’s future stance on crypto if she becomes president. Recent reports indicate that crypto advocates are even considering raising funds to sway her position on this matter.
Harris’s campaign has begun accepting crypto donations via Coinbase, reflecting an attempt to engage with the digital asset community. However, in the prediction market Polymarket, Harris is currently trailing Trump, indicating an ongoing challenge in closing the gap with her rival.
