Kamala Harris made a public statement advocating for the protection of cryptocurrencies, expressing her desire for the United States to “remain dominant” in blockchain, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technology sectors.
“We will invest in biomanufacturing and aerospace, remain dominant in AI and quantum computing, blockchain and other emerging technologies, [and] expand our lead in clean energy innovation and manufacturing,” Harris stated in a speech at The Economic Club of Pittsburgh on Sept. 25.
She emphasized, “The next generation of breakthroughs — from advanced batteries to geothermal to advanced nuclear — are not just invented, but built here in America by American workers.”
Unlike her Republican rival Donald Trump, who has actively supported cryptocurrencies, Harris had previously kept her views on crypto under wraps until Sept. 22. On that date, she spoke in favor of fostering new technologies, including “digital assets,” while also highlighting the need for consumer protections during a fundraising event.
In an 82-page economic plan released alongside her Pittsburgh speech, Harris briefly reiterated her stance on crypto. The plan makes a single reference to “digital assets,” stating that her administration will “encourage innovative technologies like AI and digital assets while protecting our consumers and investors.”
During her speech, she underscored the importance of the U.S. maintaining its technological edge over rival nations, asserting that the country must lead “the world in the industries of the future and [ensure] America, not China, wins the competition for the 21st century.”
Analysts have predicted mixed outcomes for crypto assets based on the election results. VanEck analysts noted in a Sept. 19 research note that a Harris victory might be “better” for Bitcoin, as it could help address many structural issues driving Bitcoin adoption. Conversely, they also suggested that another Trump term could be “generally bullish” for the crypto ecosystem due to his pro-industry stance.
Harris and Trump are virtually tied in national polling, with Harris leading by just 2.5 percentage points as of Sept. 25, according to FiveThirtyEight.