Harris Eyes Michigan for VP

Democratic U.S. presidential frontrunner Kamala Harris is considering Michigan Senator Gary Peters as her vice-presidential candidate this year.

Labor unions essentially push for Peters' consideration, believing his addition could strategically strengthen Harris' ticket in the crucial battleground state. An official from the Michigan Democratic Party mentioned that Peters is keen on the nomination and has been actively seeking support.

Peters' Crypto Controversy

Senator Gary Peters is known as a vocal critic of cryptocurrencies. He co-sponsored legislation aimed at combating money laundering through digital assets.

However, he also supported rolling back regulations that would have impacted banks holding crypto. Critics of the anti-money laundering legislation say that if enacted, the law could stifle innovation and drive crypto activities underground.

Peters has previously expressed concerns over using cryptocurrencies in cybercrime and ransomware attacks. He has led an investigation into how they facilitate cybercrime.

"My investigation will help us better understand how cryptocurrency can embolden cybercriminals and identify possible policy changes that would help disrupt the incentive cryptocurrencies provide for criminal organizations and foreign adversaries to target critical public and private sector systems," he said.

Harris' Crypto Stance

Kamala Harris has yet to speak much about her position on cryptocurrency. However, billionaire Mark Cuban has suggested that she might be "far more open" to crypto in this election.

"Changing the policies changes the message and lets everyone know she is in charge and open for business,"_ Cuban said. The crypto industry is still waiting for a definitive position from Harris. Previously, as Vice President under Joe Biden, she was part of an administration known for its reluctance to pass regulations in Congress.

VP Shortlist Revealed

Vice presidential nominees often help balance a presidential ticket to attract a broader range of voters. Reuters reported Monday that Harris is currently considering primarily white male candidates.

She reportedly paused her campaign this weekend to have private discussions with several potential running mates, including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, US Senator Mark Kelly from Arizona, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, and Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.

Crypto Industry Concerns

Crypto market veterans have warned Kamala Harris about Democrats opposing pro-crypto policies. Galaxy Digital chairperson Mike Novogratz has advised Harris to beware of Senator Elizabeth Warren, who constantly attacks the crypto industry with regulations.

Similarly, XRP lawyer John Deaton, who's fighting the next elections against Warren, said Kamala Harris should fire SEC Chair Gary Gensler.

The Biden administration was recently pressured after Donald Trump's assertive outreach to the crypto industry. Trump has been receiving strong support from crypto industry veterans and investors alike.

Donors to the Democratic Party are now pushing for Kamala Harris to speak at Blockworks' upcoming crypto conference. Thus, the U.S. Vice President is likely to attend the U.S. politics-focused Permissionless event from October 9 to 11.