Vice President Kamala Harris unveiled her plan to back a regulatory framework for cryptocurrency, emphasizing protections for Black investors as part of her "Opportunity Agenda for Black Men" initiative.
In a speech scheduled for today in Erie, Pennsylvania, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to unveil her stance on cryptocurrency regulation, marking her first major statement on the issue during her presidential campaign. According to her campaign, Harris will advocate for a regulatory framework for digital assets as part of her "Opportunity Agenda for Black Men," a plan aimed at addressing economic disparities within the Black community.
Kamala Harris pledges to back a crypto regulatory framework aimed at protecting Black men, as part of her "Opportunity Agenda for Black Men." pic.twitter.com/oQUuBzICFT
— TFTC (@TFTC21) October 14, 2024
The announcement, detailed in a campaign press release, emphasizes Harris' awareness of the growing participation of Black Americans in the cryptocurrency market. The release stated, "Vice President Harris knows that more than 20% of Black Americans own or have owned cryptocurrency assets, which is why her plans will make sure owners of and investors in digital assets benefit from a regulatory framework so that Black men and others who participate in this market are protected."
While Harris has mentioned cryptocurrency in the past, this marks her most specific proposal. It comes as the U.S. prepares for the upcoming presidential election, with her Republican opponent, former President Donald Trump, also signaling pro-crypto stances. Trump, who has made several appearances at Bitcoin-focused events, has positioned himself as more open to fostering innovation in the crypto industry.
In contrast, Harris' remarks suggest a focus on ensuring consumer protection within the cryptocurrency space, particularly for Black Americans who have increasingly entered the market. "She will make sure owners of and investors in digital assets benefit from a regulatory framework so that Black men and others who participate in this market are protected," her campaign said.
Although Harris has not yet provided specifics on what her proposed framework would include, the broader message aims to resonate with voters as the race between Harris and Trump tightens in the final weeks leading up to Election Day. The cryptocurrency industry has become a growing point of discussion, with polls indicating that a significant portion of voters expect candidates to be knowledgeable on the subject.
