Ripple’s Global Co-Head of Policy says political participation in Washington helped shift U.S. leadership toward crypto support. Ripple’s outreach spanned the 2024 election cycle and major political events.
Ripple Emphasizes Need to “Show Up”
Ripple is stressing the importance of engaging directly with policymakers. In a video posted on X, Global Co-Head of Policy Lauren Belive stated that “decisions are made by those who show up,” quoting the TV show The West Wing. She said Ripple made a strategic decision to invest in the political process throughout 2024.
Belive highlighted the company’s efforts during a challenging period under SEC Chair Gary Gensler. His agency issued more than 100 enforcement actions against crypto firms, which Ripple argues disrupted fair regulation.
In response, Ripple increased its political activity. It worked to educate lawmakers on blockchain technology and the importance of consumer protection.
Bipartisan Engagement and Policy Influence
Ripple participated in both the Democratic and Republican national conventions. It also attended the presidential inauguration and the White House Crypto Summit. According to Belive, these efforts contributed to the election of a more crypto-friendly Congress and president.
Ripple is now involved in bipartisan discussions in Congress aimed at drafting long-term crypto legislation. Belive described this as a historic opportunity to build a responsible framework for the next century of innovation.
Related: SEC and Ripple Strike Settlement: What’s Inside the New Deal?
Ripple and SEC Seek Court Approval to Finalize $50M Settlement
Meanwhile, Ripple and the U.S. SEC have jointly requested a ruling from Judge Analisa Torres to finalize a settlement agreement reached in April. The agreement would cut Ripple’s penalty from $125 million to $50 million and vacate a prior injunction restricting future XRP sales.
If Judge Torres approves, the parties plan to seek a remand from the appellate court to formally dissolve the injunction and return $75 million to Ripple from escrow. Once finalized, the SEC’s appeal and Ripple’s cross-appeal would be dismissed, fully resolving the dispute.
Lobbying Influence XRP Inclusion in U.S. Reserve
While Ripple promotes its public engagement, new reports allege that lobbyist Brian Ballard influenced President Donald Trump’s decision to include XRP in the U.S. Crypto Strategic Reserve.
Ballard reportedly received at least $60,000 from Ripple in 2024. Though the nature of the payment remains unclear, political insiders suggest it was tied to XRP’s inclusion. Sources say Ballard used his connections with Trump to promote XRP behind closed doors.
Related: Lobbying Helped, But XRP’s Stockpile Listing Matches Its Global Use Case
Despite the controversy, analysts say XRP’s removal from the strategic reserve is unlikely. Ripple made sizable donations of over $5 million to Trump’s campaign and inauguration, strengthening political ties.
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