Key Political Strategist Joins Coinbase’s Advisory Council
Monday, June 17, 2025
Facing a complex regulatory landscape in Washington, cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase has bolstered its political influence by appointing David Plouffe, a seasoned Democratic strategist known for Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign.
Plouffe Joins Coinbase Advisory Council
On Thursday, June 12, Coinbase announced the addition of David Plouffe to its Global Advisory Council (GAC). Plouffe, a White House Senior Advisor and former adviser to Vice President Kamala Harris, joins other prominent political figures like Trump’s former co-campaign manager Chris LaCivita.
Plouffe called crypto holders “politically competitive swing voters,” emphasizing the industry’s growing political engagement ahead of key regulatory decisions.
A Decade of Experience at the Helm
Plouffe brings nearly two decades of experience in high-level political positions. Following his role in Obama’s ground-breaking campaigns, he served as White House Senior Advisor. Most recently, he advised Harris’s 2024 presidential campaign.
Before joining Coinbase, Plouffe served as global policy and strategy lead at Uber during its global expansion.
Bipartisan Strategy Amid Policy Shifts
His appointment underscores a deliberate effort by Coinbase to project bipartisan appeal as the crypto industry advocates for favorable regulation, particularly under the new Trump administration.
“David joining GAC comes on the heels of one of the biggest legislative moments for crypto in U.S. history,” said Faryar Shirzad, Coinbase’s Chief Policy Officer. “He understands how to build broad coalitions and drive forward-looking policy.”
Crypto as a Defining Political Issue
Plouffe and LaCivita previously discussed their respective campaigns’ outreach to “crypto voters.” The industry reportedly spent over $130 million on congressional races.
While Plouffe described crypto owners as “politically competitive… not MAGA, but swing voters,” LaCivita credited the crypto issue with helping Trump connect with younger and Black voter demographics.
Mounting Crypto Legislation
Coinbase has timed its advisory council expansion strategically. Just days ago, bipartisan momentum pushed stablecoin regulation (the Genius Act) towards final Senate passage. Concurrently, broader crypto market structure legislation is progressing through House committees.
“Crypto speaks directly to how people want to live their financial lives – faster and cheaper, with fewer gatekeepers,” Plouffe stated. “It reflects the desires of today’s customers and voters alike.”
The Trump administration’s approval has been marked by efforts to reverse crypto guidance from the previous administration.
A Growing Power Play
The GAC now includes other former high-ranking officials like former Defense Secretary Mark Esper and former UK Chancellor George Osborne.
