(ReclaimingAmerica.net) – In a bold move that is sure to ignite controversy, Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has pledged to commute the sentence of infamous Silk Road founder Ross Ulbricht if re-elected as president.
Trump’s promise to free Ulbricht, who has served 11 years of a life sentence for operating the darknet marketplace, has sent shockwaves through the political landscape and crypto community alike.
His unexpected alignment with libertarian efforts and cryptocurrency advocates could reshape the 2024 election battleground.
Trump made this stunning announcement at the Libertarian National Convention in Washington, D.C., declaring, “If you vote for me, on Day 1, I will commute the sentence of Ross Ulbricht to a sentence of time served. He’s already served 11 years, we’re gonna get him home.”
This statement was met with cheers from the audience, many of whom see Ulbricht’s life sentence as excessive and an example of government overreach.
Known as “Dread Pirate Roberts” in the digital underworld, Ulbricht was arrested in 2013 for creating and operating Silk Road. This website made illegal drug and weapon transactions possible using Bitcoin.
Trump’s support for Ulbricht marks a significant shift in his stance on cryptocurrency. Once a critic, the former president now positions himself as a champion of the crypto industry.
At the convention, Trump boldly stated, “I will ensure that the future of crypto and the future of bitcoin will be made in the USA, not driven overseas. I will support the right to self custody.”
“I am very positive and open minded to cryptocurrency companies, and all things related to this new and burgeoning industry. Our country must be the leader in the field. There is no second place,” Trump has said.
He has also warned that Joe Biden “wants [the cryptocurrency industry] to die a slow and painful death. That will never happen with me!”
However, Trump’s support for Ulbricht is not without controversy. Authorities have linked Silk Road to at least six drug-related deaths.
Additionally, Ulbricht was accused of ordering hits through a Hell’s Angels group, though he was not prosecuted for these due to his life sentence.
Critics argue that commuting Ulbricht’s sentence could send a dangerous message about accountability regarding large-scale drug trafficking.
Despite the potential backlash, Trump seems committed to his stance. He recently reiterated his support on his Truth Social page, promising to “SAVE ROSS ULBRICHT!”
As the 2024 election approaches, Trump’s pledge to free Ulbricht and embrace cryptocurrency could be a game-changer.
It not only appeals to libertarian voters but also positions Trump as a forward-thinking candidate in touch with technological advancements.
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