Robert F. Kennedy Jr accepts Bitcoin donations

For the first time in history, a United States presidential candidate has started to accept Bitcoin for campaign donations. In his presidential campaign, Robert F. Kennedy Jr has announced that he will be taking campaign donations in Bitcoin.

Kennedy Jr. made his comments at the Bitcoin 2023 conference, saying that Bitcoin is representative of “democracy” and “freedom”. He noted that there is power in the durability and flexibility of cryptocurrency:

“Today, we show the world the power and the durability and the flexibility of Bitcoin. Almost everyone in this room is aware of the link between Bitcoin and democracy and freedom.” 

His attendance of the Bitcoin conference indicated his endorsement towards the industry. At the same time, it also is a major campaigning tool for voters as well as donators to his presidential candidacy. Coinbase, as an example of a significant voice in the industry, has been actively lobbying for cryptocurrency legislation in the country. Kennedy Jr’s interest in the space offers increased awareness to the space, winning him over to potential voters looking to work with lawmakers in the crypto space.

He further indicated the value that a democratic asset has in the country:

They’re passionate because of the deep representation of a deep need that we have for liberty and democracy and the promise that this innovation has to guarantee those virtues.”

Kennedy Jr has previously shared his views on cryptocurrency, suggesting that his opposition Joe Biden’s 30% tax on crypto mining is a “bad idea”. He noted that the crypto technology is a “major innovation engine” and suggested that encouraging the industry will help stimulate growth of the industry in the country.