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December 21, 2024 12:32 PM
Ripple has announced a donation of $5 million in XRP to support the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance in January. This marks the largest crypto donation ever made to a U.S. presidential inauguration.
Other prominent crypto firms, including Coinbase, Kraken, and Ondo Finance, have collectively contributed $8 million to the inaugural fund. The funds will sponsor galas, parades, and dinners as part of the three-day celebration surrounding the January 20 swearing-in ceremony.
Donors contributing $1 million or more gain access to exclusive events, including dinners with Trump and Vance and receptions with Cabinet members. Ripple and Ondo Finance are reportedly leveraging this opportunity to secure favorable engagement with the new administration.
This unprecedented wave of crypto donations underscores the growing influence of blockchain companies in shaping U.S. political and regulatory landscapes. Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has been particularly active, having donated $25M to pro-crypto PAC Fairshake earlier this year.
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