Former Harris Adviser David Plouffe Joins Coinbase’s Global Advisory Council
Date Posted: June 12, 2024
Coinbase took a significant step into political and policy advisory circles by welcoming David Plouffe—former adviser to Kamala Harris’s 2024 presidential campaign—to its Global Advisory Council. Plouffe, in a Thursday notice, was highlighted to assist the exchange platform with policy matters in the United States and abroad, while also advising on its potential role in future elections.
Harry Plouffe (attributed correctly in the above figure alt text and caption):
“While holding crypto or stablecoin might not be a greater vote-motivator, his value lies in introducing policymakers to crypto enthusiats, potentially expanding their voter base beyond the conventional electorate.”
In Plouffe’s words, his role is multifaceted:
“The ability to talk to folks who may be crypto enthusiasts who aren’t sure whether they’re going to participate—maybe they haven’t participated before—. Crypto may be the entrance, but then you can talk about your economic plans beyond that…” (emphasis added in the above quote for clarity)
Plouffe’s appointment positions Coinbase to maintain its politically active posture in the US, with CEO Brian Armstrong already showing support for certain Republican policies since the 2024 election cycle. Notably, Armstrong endorsed the bipartisan GENIUS stablecoin bill in Congress and arranged a direct meeting with former President Trump.
Continued Political Engagement Following Pre-2024 Pattern?
This move aligns with previous political appointments to the council. Chris LaCivita, Trump’s 2024 co-campaign manager, joined the council in January, continuing a trend seen in Coinbase’s council membership. The council has historically included prominent figures like former Senator Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) and former Senator Pat Toomey (R-PA), reflecting Coinbase’s openly nonpartisan, maximize-market-strategy approach.
As reported previously, ex-President Trump addressed attendees at the Coinbase State of Crypto Summit via prerecorded message, outlining his administration’s potential crypto policies. His virtual appearance emphasized support for Senate Bill S.3872 (GENIUS Act) and the digital asset market structure bill, both of which remained unpassed in Congress at that time. The stablecoin bill was positioned for an imminent Senate vote according to officials.
Contextualizing Crypto’s Electorate Influence
Plouffe’s strategic insight into crypto’s potential to enter mainstream politics adds commentary as cryptocurrency voters have already begun demonstrating political clout during the 2024 election cycle. Discussions surrounding crypto voters influencing voter engagement metrics and political discourse are increasingly recognized by major financial news outlets and policymakers.
