Ripple has announced a $5 million XRP donation to support the inauguration celebrations for President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance. The contribution is part of a broader trend of crypto firms supporting the upcoming administration.
Major Crypto Firms Step In
Coinbase and Kraken have each contributed $1 million to the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee, according to reports from Fox Business. Ondo Finance has also pledged $1 million. Combined with Ripple’s donation, crypto firms are contributing over $8 million to the inauguration fund.
The Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee is organizing several events, including parades, dinners, and galas, around the January 20 swearing-in ceremony.
Perks for Donors
Crypto leaders contributing $1 million or raising $2 million will receive exclusive access to inauguration events. These include dinners with Trump and Vance and receptions with members of the incoming Cabinet. Such opportunities allow companies like Ripple to strengthen their influence with the new administration.
Ripple’s $5 million pledge is the largest single crypto donation ever made to a political event. Mario Nawfal highlighted the significance, stating, “Crypto’s not just an alternative investment vehicle anymore; we’re seeing it reshape the world of politics in real-time.”
Crypto’s Growing Political Role
Crypto donations have taken center stage in recent elections. Three crypto-linked super PACs collectively donated $133 million to political campaigns. Ripple, Coinbase, and Jump Crypto were among the top contributors.
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has been a major supporter of pro-crypto initiatives. After the election, he donated $25 million to Fairshake, a super PAC that has already raised $103 million for the 2026 midterms.
Direct Engagement with Trump
Since Trump’s re-election, crypto executives have actively engaged with the incoming administration. Earlier this month, Crypto.com CEO Kris Marszalek met with Trump to discuss crypto-friendly policies. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong also had a private meeting with Trump to discuss potential personnel appointments.
These efforts have already influenced key positions in the administration. SEC Chair Gary Gensler has stepped down, and pro-crypto advocate Paul Atkins has replaced him. Additionally, Trump has appointed David Sacks as the first-ever AI and Crypto Czar.
Industry Poised for Influence
With substantial financial backing and high-level engagement, the cryptocurrency industry appears well-positioned to shape key decisions during Trump’s presidency. Ripple and other crypto firms are leveraging these opportunities to ensure favorable regulatory and policy outcomes.
