Trump Pledges to Free Silk Road Creator Ross Ulbricht If Re-Elected

At the Libertarian National Convention in Washington, D.C., over the weekend, Trump made a promise. He stated, “Should you cast your vote for me, I will work to reduce Ross Ulbricht’s sentence on Day 1. He has served an eleven-year term already; it’s time for him to return home.”

Just prior to making those comments, Trump posted on Truth Social expressing his appreciation for the crypto sector.

Trump expressed great enthusiasm and receptiveness towards cryptocurrency businesses and the innovative sector they represent. He emphasized the importance of our country taking the lead in this emerging field, asserting that there is no contender for the top spot. Biden, on the other hand, reportedly seeks to stifle the industry’s growth. However, Trump reassured his followers that such an outcome would not transpire under his watch.

During his evening speech, the crowd enthusiastically applauded Trump’s commitment to releasing Ross Ulbricht. Several individuals in the audience waved signs that read “Free Ross.”

In 2015, Ulbricht received a double life sentence with an additional 40 years in prison – essentially, a prison term with no prospect of release – for establishing and managing Silk Road between 2011 and 2013. This clandestine online marketplace facilitated anonymous transactions for various goods, primarily illegal drugs. Notably, Bitcoin gained significant real-world recognition through Silk Road’s use as its primary currency.

As a researcher delving into the intricacies of cryptocurrency and libertarianism, I’ve come across the fascinating case of Ross Ulbricht. His story has resonated deeply with many in these communities, who view his lengthy sentence as an unwarranted infringement on constitutional rights by the government. In fact, back in 2018, the Libertarian Party took a bold stand and petitioned then-President Trump for Ulbricht’s pardon.

Prior to the conclusion of Trump’s presidency in January 2021, he extended clemency to 143 individuals. Of these, he granted pardons to 73 people, including Ripple board member Ken Kurson. He also commuted the sentences for 70 other individuals. However, Ulbricht, Julian Assange of WikiLeaks, and Edward Snowden, who exposed details about a U.S. surveillance program to journalist Glenn Greenwald, did not receive clemency from Trump.

Trump spoke to the convention crowd about cryptocurrencies, assuring them that he would thwart Biden’s efforts to suppress digital currencies – we will put a halt to it.

As a dedicated crypto investor, I am committed to shaping the future of digital currencies, particularly Bitcoin, within the borders of the United States. I firmly believe in the importance of individual control over one’s assets, and that’s why I will champion the right to self-custody. To my fellow fifty million crypto holders, let me assure you: I’ve got your back. I promise to keep regulators like Elizabeth Warren at bay, ensuring they cannot interfere with your Bitcoin holdings. Furthermore, I will never allow for the creation of a central bank digital currency that could potentially threaten your financial autonomy.

In more straightforward terms, Trump’s stance on cryptocurrencies has noticeably softened over the past few months. He has made numerous supportive statements about digital currencies in public forums and broke new ground by accepting campaign contributions in this form, making him the first presidential candidate from a major party to do so.