For the first time in the history of American elections, cryptocurrency become a key factor in campaigns. This new development might be because research showed that about 21% of American citizens own crypto, and above 70% of them will consider the crypto stance of the presidential candidate. A candidate with friendly crypto policies might not win the election only because of his position, but he might gain a good number of support or votes from the crypto community.
The recent increase in the price of Bitcoin is not solely because of Donald Trump's good promises to the crypto community. The predictions that the Fed might cut down interest rates twice this year are giving investors more confidence. Political statements would only cause an artificial rise in price, but economic policies can lead to sustainable growth.
I don't think that crypto is a key factor in this election, we have this feeling because we only care and pay attention to what is related to crypto. But in reality, candidates spend most of their time discussing and debating issues related to inflation, real estate prices, immigration, military, economy...Cryptocurrency is nothing compared to the above factors as it does not have any significant impact on their economy.
But I agree with you, bitcoin price increased because of the market's optimism that the Fed will lower interest rates in September, not because of Trump's statements in the recent bitcoin conference.
Has there been any time in the history of the US election that presidential candidates are discussing or giving promises about the crypto industry? This is not only about Donald Trump; it was rumored that Kamala Harris was billed to be a keynote speaker at the Bitcoin Conference, but she later decided not to attend. Cryptocurrencies might not be as powerful as immigration, foreign policy, climate change, abortion, and LGBT rights, but it is an emerging force in the economy of the US. Politicians also know that most people in the US own crypto, and this ownership might determine their choice of candidate.