Brad Garlinghouse, CEO of Ripple, has openly supported John Deaton in his Massachusetts Senate candidacy against current Elizabeth Warren. Garlinghouse said in a post dated October 22 that he supports Deaton “enthusiastically and wholeheartedly” because of Deaton’s commitment to speak for the interests of XRP owners and the larger bitcoin community.
This backing fits past donations to Deaton’s campaign made by Garlinghouse, co-founder Chris Larsen, and chief legal officer Stuart Alderoty of Ripple. Ripple has also been a major player in the Commonwealth Unity Fund PAC, which supports Deaton and runs commercials criticizing Warren.
A conflict over crypto policies
The Senate contest has highlighted different opinions on control of cryptocurrencies. Deaton and Warren had a furious argument over digital asset rules during two recent discussions. Warren asserted that his support in Washington would solely benefit cryptocurrency interests, accusing Deaton of an undue association with the sector. Deaton countered that Warren’s emphasis on controlling digital assets takes attention away from other important problems, including immigration and economic concerns.
Deaton has positioned himself as a pro-crypto champion, whereas Warren has been a frequent opponent of the sector, often supporting laws many feel will impede its expansion. The American government views Deaton and Warren as significant players in the ongoing discussion on cryptocurrencies.
Just under two weeks till the election, the latest surveys show Warren still leads well over Deaton, who has attracted attention among certain crypto aficionados. Garlinghouse’s support indicates the growing relevance of crypto policy in forming political narratives and voter choices.
Apart from helping Deaton, the leadership of Ripple has also demonstrated support for Democratic candidate Kamala Harris. Larsen recently committed $11 million in XRP to a PAC supporting Kamala Harris’s campaign, highlighting the diverse political involvement within the Ripple community.
