Lawmakers urge the Democratic Party to adopt a more favorable stance on digital assets with Kamala Harris as the potential presidential nominee.
Points
- Democratic lawmakers call for a pro-crypto stance.
- Kamala Harris seen as an opportunity for change.
- Suggestion to replace SEC Chair Gary Gensler.
In a letter dated July 26, Democratic members of the US House of Representatives and candidates running in 2024 urged the Democratic National Committee （DNC） to shift its stance on digital assets. The letter, addressed to DNC Chair Jaime Harrison, calls for the party to adopt a more forward-looking approach towards digital assets and blockchain technology, especially with Vice President Kamala Harris as the prospective presidential nominee.
The letter, signed by 14 House members including Representatives Ro Khanna, Wiley Nickel, and Ritchie Torres, along with 14 candidates, highlights the public perception that the Democratic Party holds a negative viewpoint on digital assets due to the current SEC’s approach. They argue that this perception does not align with the party’s progressive and inclusive values.
“[T]here is a public perception that the party holds a negative viewpoint on digital assets, largely due to the current SEC’s approach to these transformative technologies,” the letter states. ”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 lawmakers and candidates suggest that Harris, if elected, should consider replacing SEC Chair Gary Gensler with a “pro-innovation” regulator. They also encourage her to choose a running mate sophisticated in digital asset policy. Potential candidates include Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly.