Among the most prominent voter blocs this election season has been the crypto voter, who has been instrumental in shaping the contours of the policy debate this year and, for the first time, forcing candidates to prioritize conversations about the future of cryptocurrency in this country.

Crypto owners represent a diverse and forward-looking demographic, particularly in swing states such as Arizona, Michigan, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. Nationwide, 68% of crypto owners are Millennials and Gen Z, and 48% are racially diverse. In states that will decide the presidency, more than 4 million voters are crypto owners, making them a significant factor in determining the outcome of this election.

A recent poll from the Digital Chamber shows one in seven likely voters (16%) identify as part of the crypto voting bloc. This is a bipartisan group that sees crypto policy as a key issue. For example, four in 10 Black voters say crypto is “very” or “extremely” important in deciding who to support in 2024, underscoring the broad appeal of crypto policy beyond traditional political divides.

There is bipartisan agreement that the government should prioritize designing policies that encourage growth and also protect consumer freedoms. A majority of both Republicans and Democrats say that supporting the crypto industry should be at least a medium-level priority for the next president and Congress, with nearly one in three Democrats and over one in four Republicans believing that it should be a "high" or "very high" priority. In fact, four in five U.S. adults say crypto policy should be at least moderately important for government officials, indicating broad national support for action on this issue.

Candidates who recognize the importance of crypto voters have a significant opportunity to engage a growing and motivated constituency by advocating for policies that support innovation while ensuring consumer protection. Crypto voters are looking for more than vague promises. They want clear, actionable plans that acknowledge crypto technology’s potential to transform finance, promote economic inclusion, and create new opportunities. By embracing this balanced approach, candidates can tap into a broad, bipartisan base of voters who are eager for leadership that fosters economic freedom and technological advancement.

Stand With Crypto, our advocacy group, held a successful tour through five swing states — AZ, MI, NV, WI, PA — and Washington, DC, where we engaged with crypto advocates, voters, policymakers, and local crypto founders at concerts, tailgates, and crypto networking events. We also conducted voter registration at these high-turnout events — over 500,000 people have engaged with SWC's voter registration or candidate research tools.

The response has been clear: the electorate is ready for more decisive leadership on crypto policy. Our voter registration and education drives have shown that crypto enthusiasts are not only passionate but also eager to make their voices heard at the ballot box. SWC's state chapter presidents, who have been heavily involved in the crypto space in their respective states for several years, have played a vital role in mobilizing their communities and advocating for sensible crypto policies that balance innovation with regulation. As one of our champions in Arizona said, "[we're] ensuring our community is informed, empowered, and ready to shape the future."

While SWC's 2024 election engagement is already impressive,we're just getting started. After amassing 1.8 million advocates in a year and a half, we're looking to grow to 4 million passionate crypto enthusiasts by 2026.

Crypto voters are a force to be reckoned with in 2024 and have had a demonstrable influence on policy positions for incumbents and challengers alike. Since Stand With Crypto began tracking, we’ve counted 355 pro-crypto candidates in Congressional races, with 291 having shifted from having no stance on crypto to a positive one, and over 300 having supported at least one pro-crypto bill. Candidates nationwide have made more than 1,900 pro-crypto statements, proving that this issue is gaining traction across the political spectrum.

In this election, the crypto vote could be the difference between winning and losing. Crypto voters are here, they’re engaged, and they are ready to shape the future. Smart candidates are taking notice.

Note: The views expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of CoinDesk, Inc. or its owners and affiliates.

Opinion