Former President Donald Trump has reaffirmed his strong support for cryptocurrency, asserting that the United States must take the lead in digital asset innovation or risk being left behind by global competitors like China. In a recent interview, Trump emphasized crypto’s growing popularity and resilience amid market challenges.
“I Want Crypto,” Trump Declares
Speaking to NBC’s Meet the Press, Trump underlined the urgency for American leadership in the crypto space. When asked about concerns over profiting from his presidential role, Trump steered the conversation toward the strategic importance of digital currencies.
“I want crypto,” he said. “I think crypto is important because if we don’t do it, China is going to. It’s new. It’s very popular. It’s very hot.” Trump noted that even during periods of market turbulence, cryptocurrencies held up better than many traditional financial assets.
Highlighting Adoption and Attacking Biden
According to Trump, the sheer level of adoption and interest in crypto makes it impossible to ignore. He criticized the Biden administration for what he described as inconsistent and politically motivated regulation of the crypto industry.
He accused the current administration of initially cracking down on crypto, only to later relax its stance when it became politically convenient. Trump positioned himself as a consistent supporter of the digital asset space.
Addressing Allegations of Personal Gain
With questions swirling around the Official Trump Token (TRUMP), the former president sought to downplay any suggestion that he is financially benefitting from its existence. He insisted that his interest in crypto predates his latest presidential campaign.
“I’m not profiting from anything,” Trump said. “I haven’t even looked.” He added, “If I own stock in something, and I do a good job, and the stock market goes up, I guess I’m profiting.”
Trump reiterated that he donated his entire presidential salary during his time in office and intends to continue that practice. When pressed on whether he would contribute any potential crypto earnings, he responded candidly: “Should I contribute all of my real estate that I’ve owned for many years if it goes up a little bit because I’m president and doing a good job? I don’t think so.”
Market Decline and Token Performance
Despite Trump’s endorsement, the TRUMP token has seen a significant drop in value since his inauguration. Once boasting a market cap nearing $15 billion, it has since plummeted to around $2 billion, according to CoinMarketCap.
However, the token experienced a brief resurgence last week, surging over 70% on the news that Trump would host an exclusive event for top token holders.
Exclusive Dinner Sparks Controversy
Scheduled for May 22 at Trump National Golf Club, the invitation-only dinner will include the top 220 wallets holding TRUMP tokens. This high-profile gathering has prompted concern across the political spectrum.
Democratic Senators Elizabeth Warren and Adam Schiff have called for an ethics investigation, alleging that the event might be an example of “pay to play” and could signal the monetization of presidential access.
Even some Republicans have voiced discomfort. Senator Cynthia Lummis, known both for her support of Trump and her advocacy for Bitcoin, openly expressed her concerns.
“This is my president that we’re talking about, but I am willing to say that this gives me pause,” Lummis told CNBC.
Balancing Influence and Ethics
As Trump continues to lean into crypto as part of his political messaging, the intersection of personal branding, digital assets, and presidential influence is drawing scrutiny. His outspoken support for crypto may resonate with younger and tech-savvy voters, but it also raises fresh questions about transparency, conflicts of interest, and ethics in governance.
With a high-stakes election looming and digital assets becoming a key part of political and economic discourse, Trump’s crypto push could shape not only campaign rhetoric but also the regulatory landscape ahead.
