Ross Ulbricht Expresses Gratitude for Trump’s Pardon Promise
Ross Ulbricht, the founder of Silk Road, recently took to Twitter to express his heartfelt gratitude to former President Donald Trump. During the Libertarian National Convention, Trump pledged to commute Ulbricht’s life sentence if he is reelected.
“Last night, Donald Trump pledged to commute my sentence on day 1, if reelected. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you,” Ulbricht tweeted. “After 11 years in prison, it is hard to express how I feel at this moment. It is thanks to your undying support that I may get a second chance.”
The Libertarian National Convention: A Turning Point
The Libertarian National Convention saw a mix of cheers and boos as Trump made his controversial statements. Attendees were seen handing out "Free Ross" signs, advocating for Ulbricht's release. Trump's promise to protect Bitcoin from political figures like Elizabeth Warren resonated with some, although it did not significantly impact Bitcoin’s price, which is trading just under $69,000.
A Controversial Figure
Ulbricht was arrested in October 2013 and later sentenced to life in prison for his involvement with Silk Road, an online black market. Libertarians argue that his life sentence exemplifies government overreach. Despite Trump’s pledge, there remains skepticism within the broader cryptocurrency community. Critics like Jameson Lopp, CTO of Casa, dismissed Trump’s promises as political pandering, noting that Trump had four years in office to act but did not.
Mixed Reactions from the Crypto Community
The crypto community is divided on Trump’s pledge. Some, like Messari co-founder Ryan Selkis, have voiced support, sharing optimistic views about potential changes at the SEC under Trump. Others, like Adam Cochran of Cinneamhain Ventures, urge caution, citing Trump’s history of backtracking and controversial policies.
Conclusion: A Polarizing Promise
Trump’s promise to commute Ulbricht’s sentence has sparked a wide range of reactions. For Ulbricht, it represents a beacon of hope after 11 years of incarceration. For the crypto community, it underscores the complex interplay between politics and the quest for autonomy and freedom in the digital age. As the 2024 elections approach, Trump’s stance on cryptocurrency will undoubtedly continue to provoke debate and discussion.
Stay updated with the latest developments in the cryptocurrency world. As always, ensure you conduct your own research (DYOR) and stay informed about the regulatory changes and their implications for your investments.
Post a Comment