The Republican National Committee (RNC) in the United States has approved a preliminary version of its policy platform, which includes advocating for cryptocurrencies and Bitcoin mining.
In an update to Donald Trump’s campaign website on July 8, it was revealed that the RNC draft has made a significant shift in the party’s official policy by recognizing crypto as a means to promote innovation in the US economy. The platform accuses Democrats of engaging in an “unlawful” crackdown on crypto and pledges to oppose the creation of a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).
The updated platform states, “We will defend the right to mine Bitcoin, and ensure every American has the right to self-custody of their digital assets, and transact free from government surveillance and control.”
The changes to the party platform were made ahead of the RNC’s national convention, which is set to begin on July 15. It is widely expected that Trump will be officially nominated as the Republican candidate for US president. Initially, Trump was scheduled to be sentenced on July 11 after being convicted on 34 felony counts in New York, but the hearing has been postponed to September following a Supreme Court opinion on presidential immunity.
It is unclear why the RNC included a section on cryptocurrencies that echoes many of Trump’s views. In the past, Trump has expressed skepticism towards Bitcoin, calling it a “scam” and warning of potential disaster. However, his campaign for the 2024 election has shown a shift in stance, with Trump now accepting crypto contributions and advocating for the mining of all remaining Bitcoin within the country.
The fact that Trump’s daughter, Lara, has been co-chairing the RNC since March suggests that she may have had some influence over the change in the party’s platform. Cointelegraph reached out to the RNC for comment but did not receive a response at the time of publication.
In a recent CNN debate on June 27, President Joe Biden and Trump did not discuss digital assets. Biden’s performance in the debate, which included a weaker voice, stumbling through answers, and coughing, has led some to call for him to step aside for another Democratic candidate. However, as of July 8, Biden has stated his intention to be the party’s nominee.
The Democratic National Committee is expected to select an official nominee before August 7, which is the deadline for parties to apply and appear on the ballot in Ohio. The party’s convention is scheduled for August 19, approximately 78 days before the US Election Day on November 5.