Over 20% of voters in swing states consider crypto a key issue in US elections: survey

More than 20% of voters in several battleground states consider crypto to be a key issue in the upcoming U.S. elections, according to a poll released by blockchain venture firm Digital Currency Group. 

Half of the 1,201 registered voters polled from Michigan, Ohio, Montana, Pennsylvania, Nevada and Arizona, say they pay attention to candidates' crypto stances, according to the poll from DCG. The Harris Poll, which administered the survey on behalf of DCG, was conducted from April 4-16. 

The online survey reveals that swing state voters consider crypto an important issue, according to a statement released by DCG on Tuesday. 

“This data shows crypto is top of mind for voters in swing Senate states and that a pro-crypto position is a net positive for policymakers and candidates,” said Julie Stitzel, senior vice president of policy at DCG in a statement. “The poll also underscores a strong desire for policymakers to establish reasonable regulations that protect consumers without stifling innovation.” 

Crypto has become a part of the campaign trail as current and previous presidential candidates have voiced their stances. Crypto industry super PACs have also raised more than $100 million for the 2024 congressional elections, according to a report released on Monday from consumer advocacy group Public Citizen, which gathered data from Opensecrets.org. 

Other findings

The poll also found that about 20% to 25% of voters and a third of "crypto-positive" voters want elected officials to focus on regulating crypto and protections for investors. 

About 14% of voters currently own crypto, while 12% have previously owned crypto, with crypto ownership being the highest in Montana. Of the states surveyed, Ohio voters are more negative towards crypto. 

Ohio is shaping up to be an influential race as Senate Banking Committee Democratic Chair Sherrod Brown faces reelection. Brown, who in the past has been critical of crypto, will face Republican Bernie Moreno after the crypto-friendly candidate won in the primary, according to news reports. 

Crypto exchange Coinbase has honed in on Ohio and has hosted town halls in the state as part of its grassroots "Stand with Crypto" campaign, according to Politico.