In a pivot from his previously critical stance, former President Donald Trump signaled an openness toward Bitcoin during a recent Fox News interview.
When asked if embracing decentralized cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin could counter China’s digital yuan, Trump responded, “I like the dollar, but many people are doing it [using Bitcoin], and frankly, it’s taken a life of its own. You probably have to do some regulation, as you know, but many people are embracing it. And more and more, I’m seeing people wanting to pay Bitcoin, and you’re seeing something that’s interesting. So I can live with it one way or the other.”
This marks a drastic change from Trump’s anti-Bitcoin rhetoric in 2021 when he called it a “scam” and ordered the Treasury Secretary to “go after” cryptocurrencies. His new comments acknowledge Bitcoin’s soaring popularity.
Some speculate this shift is a political tactic to attract crypto-focused voters for his 2024 presidential campaign. Trump currently leads the Republican field, which includes rival Nikki Haley.
Regardless of motives, Trump’s evolving perspective could influence future U.S. policies.