Quick Takeaways
- President Trump reaffirmed his crypto-first policy in a new 60 Minutes interview.
- He defended his pardon of Binance founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao.
- Trump pledged to keep the U.S. “number one” in global crypto innovation.
Trump Vows to Keep America ‘Number One in Crypto’
In an extended 60 Minutes interview aired Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump doubled down on his goal to make America the world leader in cryptocurrency.
“We’re number one in crypto in the whole world,” Trump told CBS reporter Norah O’Donnell. “Other people want to be, but they can’t. We’re number one because I’m the president.”
Trump emphasized that the crypto industry is too big to lose, warning against China’s growing influence. “I don’t want China or anybody else to take it away. It’s a massive industry,” he said.
From Crypto Skeptic to Industry Advocate
Trump’s remarks underscore a major shift from his former disbelief toward digital assets. By early 2024, he will be embracing crypto policy reform, with his establishment following the measuring stick to promote blockchain innovation.
His sons Donald Jr., Eric, and Barron Trump have also joined the crypto space, with family investments spanning Bitcoin mining to memecoins. According to the Financial Times, the Trump family has earned over $1 billion from crypto-related ventures.
CZ Pardon and Corruption Allegations
During the interview, Trump defended his pardon of Binance co-founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao, who served four months in prison for AML compliance violations before being released in September 2024.
“I heard it was a Biden witch hunt,” Trump said. “I don’t know him, but it sounded political.”
The pardon sparked controversy, with critics citing conflicts of interest after reports that Trump-backed World Liberty Financial discussed investing in Binance.US. Trump denied any wrongdoing, saying, “I’m not concerned. We’re number one in crypto.”
Meanwhile, CZ’s lawyer has demanded a retraction from Sen. Elizabeth Warren over remarks made following the pardon and is reportedly considering legal action for defamation.
Crypto Policy Under Trump’s Leadership
Since returning to the office, Trump has issued several executive orders supporting digital assets. These include creating a U. S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, a digital asset stockpile, and a working group on crypto regulation.
His presidential term has likewise dismissed multiple lawsuits against major crypto houses, including Coinbase, Uniswap, and Gemini, pointing to a well-disposed stance toward the sector.
Trump’s clemency for Ross Ulbricht, founder of Silk Road, further reflects his tolerant effort to reset Washington’s relationship with crypto.
Crypto’s Central Role in Trump’s Economic Vision
Trump framed crypto as a strategic pillar of U.S. economic leadership, comparing its dominance to industries like aerospace and defense.
“In crypto, you’re going to have number one and you’re not gonna have a number two,” he said. With policies aimed at deregulation and innovation, , a message that continues to resonate across both financial and political arenas.
