NASHVILLE, Tenn. — At the Bitcoin 2024 conference, former President Donald Trump set forth an ambitious Bitcoin- and crypto-friendly agenda that energized the crowd. He criticized his opponent, current Vice President and presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris, for the Biden Administration’s crypto policies.
“I pledge to the Bitcoin community that the day I take the oath of office, Joe Biden’s and Kamala Harris’s anti-crypto crusade will be over,” said Trump, now the first former American president to address an audience at a Bitcoin event anywhere in the world.
A Landmark Announcement
Trump made his landmark announcement in front of a packed conference hall. David Bailey, the conference organizer and CEO of Bitcoin Magazine, estimated the hall held 8,000 attendees, with tens of thousands, maybe even over 100,000 more tuning in via livestream.
Crypto-Friendly Promises
Trump made numerous additional promises, including:
- Establishing a presidential advisory council to design transparent regulatory guidelines within his first 100 days in office.
- Using the U.S. government’s current Bitcoin stash to form a “strategic national bitcoin stockpile.”
Reading from a teleprompter and occasionally digressing, Trump concluded with a direct aim at the Biden Administration’s approach to crypto: “My promise to each and every one of you is this. I will be our pro-innovation and pro-Bitcoin president that America needs and our citizens deserve. … Our nation has never thrived by trying to censor new ideas and shut down the dreams of our people. America always plants our flag on the next frontier and pushes boldly ahead.”
Targeting SEC Chair Gary Gensler
Trump’s promise to fire SEC Chair Gary Gensler on his first day in office generated the loudest applause during his speech.
“On day one, I will fire Gary Gensler and appoint a new SEC Chair,” Trump said, eliciting a thunderous applause and bringing the entire crowd to its feet.
“I didn’t know he was that unpopular! Wow,” Trump said, seemingly shocked. “I didn’t know he was that unpopular,” he repeated, stunned. “Let me say that again.” The crowd roared.
“On Day 1, I will fire Gary Gensler,” he repeated. When the crowd stood and cheered raucously again, he said, “Whoa!”
Attendees broke into a chant.
“I will appoint a new SEC chairman who believes America should build the future, not block the future,” Trump said.
Trump’s speech at Bitcoin 2024 showcased his commitment to a pro-crypto agenda, resonating strongly with the audience. His promises, especially the pledge to fire SEC Chair Gary Gensler, highlighted his intent to overhaul current crypto regulations and support innovation in the industry.
