Support from Miami Mayor Francis Suarez
Miami’s Mayor Francis Suarez has been at the forefront of the crypto movement in Florida. He not only advocated for digital assets but also opted to receive his salary in Bitcoin. Miami even launched its state token, MiamiCoin, with plans to distribute revenue to residents. Suarez’s efforts have attracted major crypto companies like Blockchain.com, FTX, and eToro to open offices in Miami, solidifying the city’s reputation as a crypto hub.
Florida Gubernatorial candidate Nikki Fried also expressed her support for cryptocurrency by accepting campaign donations in digital assets.
Concerns Over a Digital Dollar
Governor DeSantis raised concerns about President Joe Biden’s Executive Order regarding central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). He criticized the centralized nature of CBDCs, arguing that such systems could lead to excessive control over individuals’ financial transactions, potentially restricting purchases arbitrarily. His sentiments were echoed by Congressman Tom Emmer, who warned of authoritarian risks tied to a Fed-controlled digital dollar, comparing it to China’s financial system.
Rise of Pro-Crypto Politicians
A growing number of politicians are advocating for digital innovation. Notable figures include New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who received his paycheck in crypto, and Mayor Scott Conger of Jackson, Tennessee, who suggested adding crypto to retirement plans. Other prominent crypto supporters include Jared Polis, Rand Paul, and Rick Perry. However, opposition exists, with Senator Elizabeth Warren being a vocal critic of the crypto industry.
About Governor Ron DeSantis
Ronald Dion DeSantis, born September 14, 1978, has been Florida’s 46th governor since 2019. A former U.S. House Representative for Florida’s 6th district, DeSantis has built a reputation as a staunch Trump ally. His tenure as governor has been marked by efforts to position Florida as a leading state for crypto innovation.
DeSantis’ Crypto Advocacy
DeSantis has actively worked to make Florida a crypto-friendly state. In December 2021, he proposed funding for blockchain experiments to optimize state functions, including vehicle record monitoring and fraud detection in Medicaid transactions. While the legislature did not pass this proposal, it underscored his commitment to leveraging blockchain technology for public service improvements.
