The Digital Chamber presses Kamala Harris to take a positive approach to crypto ahead of elections

The Digital Chamber asked Vice President Kamala Harris to take a more positive approach to cryptocurrency in a letter sent to the likely Democratic presidential nominee.

Crypto has quickly become part of the election season landscape. The Republican Party expressed support for crypto firms and investors in its platform for the 2024 elections, including vowing to end an “unlawful and un-American crackdown” on the U.S. crypto industry.

Some top Democratic lawmakers have voted for bills to regulate crypto over the past year, including Speaker of the House Rep. Nancy Pelosi of California, the Chamber noted in its letter. Harris has had an extensive political career in tech-focused San Francisco, though has not taken a firm stance on crypto.

"However, there is a public perception that the party holds a negative viewpoint on digital assets, largely due to the Biden/Harris Administration's notably cautious and at times hostile approach to these transformative technologies," the Chamber said in its letter on Monday. "We believe this previous hostility does not reflect the progressive and inclusive values of your Party."

President Joe Biden announced on Sunday he would not be seeking reelection in the upcoming 2024 presidential election and endorsed Harris to replace him as the Democratic Party's nominee. Democrats are set to select a presidential nominee at the Democratic National Convention next month in Chicago.

The Chamber asked Harris specifically to pick a vice president who has "a proven track record of engaging with digital asset technology and proposing pro-innovation policies," singling out Colorado Gov. Jared Polis as an example. Polis has taken a friendly approach to crypto. He accepted campaign contributions in crypto and during his time as governor allowed for tax payments to be made in crypto, according to multiple news reports.

The Chamber also asked the vice president to include "pro-digital asset language" in the Democratic party's platform, as well as have open discussions with crypto industry leaders.

"We are hopeful that with your leadership, the Democratic Party can pivot towards a more supportive stance on digital assets, aligning with the aspirations of millions of Americans who believe in the transformative power of this technology," the Chamber said.