US Presidential Hopeful Kamala Harris Gains Support from Ripple’s Chris Larsen and Other Tech Leaders

As a researcher with years of experience studying the intersection of technology, politics, and economics, I find myself intrigued by the recent endorsements for Vice President Kamala Harris from influential figures within the tech industry, including Chris Larsen, co-founder of Ripple. This development sheds light on the growing support Harris has garnered and highlights the diverse perspectives within the crypto sector.


With the US presidency competition intensifying, Vice President Kamala Harris is experiencing a notable surge of support from influential tech magnates, including leaders in the cryptocurrency field.

As per a recent report from CNBC, it’s been announced that 88 prominent business leaders on Wall Street have publicly endorsed Harris as the Democratic candidate for the upcoming election. Notable among these supporters is Chris Larsen, co-founder of Ripple, a well-known blockchain payment infrastructure company.

Ripple’s Diverging Paths

The endorsement, given only to CNBC, underscores the increasing backing Harris has received from significant business leaders. Larsen’s support is particularly significant because he is the first prominent cryptocurrency executive to publicly back Harris, even though her administration has had a somewhat ambiguous position on the rapidly developing digital economy.

Instead, Ripple’s CEO Brad Garlinghouse and his co-founder have stayed impartial, declining to back either presidential candidate. Instead, Garlinghouse has concentrated on advocating for pro-cryptocurrency politicians who promote regulatory transparency and policies that encourage innovation within the sector. In December 2023, he encouraged leaders in the cryptocurrency industry to unite behind candidates dedicated to fostering growth in the digital asset market.

In support of this initiative, Garlinghouse has generously donated to Fairshake – a U.S. political action committee (PAC) that advocates for pro-crypto candidates at the federal level. Over the past year, Ripple and Garlinghouse have jointly contributed more than $50 million towards this effort.

Ripple to Expand Outside the US

His worries regarding the U.S. regulatory environment arise from his opinion that it continues to be unfavorable towards cryptocurrency ventures, given the persistent court disputes and ambiguous guidelines.

Brad Garlinghouse has additionally recommended that founders explore possibilities beyond the U.S., citing friendlier conditions overseas. He notes that Ripple, itself, is considering expanding globally, focusing on regions with clearer guidelines for cryptocurrency businesses in their regulatory frameworks.

Additionally, he mentioned that Ripple holds no intention of launching an Initial Public Offering (IPO) within the United States because of the intensely stringent regulations prevalent in that area.

Though Larsen and Garlinghouse might take contrasting political stances, they both wield significant power within the cryptocurrency sector. Larsen’s endorsement of Harris signifies his confidence in her capacity to guide the country during a crucial time marked by rapid technological and economic transformation.

High-Profile Supporters from Across Tech

Beyond Larsen, the endorsement letter for Harris also bears signatures from several highly influential figures within the tech industry.

Various high-profile business leaders like Aaron Levie (CEO of Box), Jeremy Stoppelman (CEO of Yelp), and Michael Lynton (chairman of Snap Inc) have voiced their trust in Harris’s ability to lead effectively.

Notable backers also include James Murdoch, a previous CEO at 21st Century Fox, and John Doerr from Kleiner Perkins, who has historically supported Democrats. These influential figures endorse Harris due to their conviction that she can effectively maintain policies that foster economic stability and security in the United States.

In the letter they penned, the signatories underscored the necessity of selecting a leader who will persist in advocating for equitable and consistent policies, uphold justice, and foster a reliable economic climate.

As a crypto investor, I’m confident that if she gets elected in November, her commitment to maintaining “a fair and consistent policy framework, upholding the rule of law, fostering stability, and promoting a conducive business climate” will continue to be beneficial for my investments in the digital currency space.

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2024-09-06 19:36