Cardano Founder Says Ripple Paid $5M to Have Dinner with Donald Trump

In a claim that has sent shockwaves through the cryptocurrency community, Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson recently suggested that Ripple, the blockchain company behind XRP, paid a whopping $5 million for an exclusive dinner with Donald Trump prior to his inauguration. This eye-catching revelation set the stage for a heated discussion about crypto lobbying and influence in the political sphere, sparking both intrigue and skepticism across the industry.

The claim was shared during a public discussion where Hoskinson shed light on what he asserted was an intentional effort by Ripple to gain favor and bolster its agenda. While the details of this alleged meeting remain sparse, the statement has already garnered significant attention, further highlighting the growing nexus between the crypto industry and global politics.

Ripple Labs, which has been deeply embroiled in a drawn-out legal battle with the SEC over XRP’s status as a security, has not yet commented on Hoskinson’s claims. However, such a dinner, if it occurred, could have been a strategic move aimed at securing political allies at a time when regulatory scrutiny over blockchain projects was beginning to ramp up. Critics and Ripple supporters alike are left questioning the validity and intentions behind such an expense. Was this about protecting XRP from U.S. regulators or simply a bold networking effort?

Hoskinson’s statement has fueled speculation online, as many continue to debate the ethics of such maneuvers. Industry leaders and crypto advocates are calling for Ripple to clarify the situation, though no formal response has been issued at the time of writing.

As cryptocurrency and blockchain entities become increasingly intertwined with high-profile regulatory discussions, these revelations serve as a reminder of the lengths some companies may go to position themselves politically. It also underscores the importance of transparency and accountability as blockchain technology moves toward mainstream adoption.

What do you think about this revelation? Does political lobbying of this magnitude cast a shadow over crypto’s decentralized ethos, or is it simply a necessary step in navigating today’s complex regulatory landscape? Let us know on X!