- Donald Trump commits to commuting Ross Ulbricht’s sentence, aligning with his pro-Bitcoin agenda if re-elected.
- Trump announced at Bitcoin Conference 2024, receiving support from attendees for pledging to pardon Ulbricht immediately.
At the Bitcoin Conference 2024 in Nashville, former President Donald Trump made a bold pledge to commute the sentence of Silk Road founder Ross Ulbricht if re-elected. Ulbricht, who has been incarcerated since 2013 for his role in operating the infamous darknet marketplace, has become a symbolic figure within the Bitcoin community.
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Trump was clearly taken aback at the crowd's reaction when he made the announcement.
"On day one, I will fire Gary Gensler and… pic.twitter.com/0CyOMaY6FY
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) July 27, 2024
Trump’s announcement was met with approval from many attendees, highlighting his commitment to what he views as justice in this high-profile case. “Enough is enough!” Trump declared, promising swift action to pardon Ulbricht on his first day back in office. This move aligns with his broader campaign to promote a pro-Bitcoin agenda in the United States.
Trump: Today, I repeat my pledge to commute the sentence of Ross Ulbricht to a sentence of time served. It’s enough pic.twitter.com/GZOG8mH4cK
— Acyn (@Acyn) July 27, 2024
In addition to his promise regarding Ulbricht, Trump outlined comprehensive plans to position the U.S. as a global leader in cryptocurrency. His policy proposals include dismissing SEC Chairman Gary Gensler within the first 100 days of his administration, opposing the implementation of a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), and protecting individual rights to self-custody digital assets.
"Never sell your #Bitcoin." – Donald J. Trumppic.twitter.com/Cusnkib64h
— Michael Saylor⚡️ (@saylor) July 28, 2024
An element of Trump’s cryptocurrency strategy is the creation of a Strategic National Bitcoin Reserve. He proposed that the U.S. government should consolidate its Bitcoin holdings to establish this reserve, aiming to secure 1 million Bitcoins over five years from excess Federal Reserve balance sheet items. Trump argued that this initiative would