Charles Hoskinson, the co-founder of IOHK and the Cardano blockchain platform, expressed his frustration with certain elements of US President Donald Trump’s approach to cryptocurrency. He highlighted specific instances where Trump’s personal involvement in the crypto space raised concerns.
Hoskinson’s remarks attracted significant attention from journalists eager to delve deeper into his perspective. Many sought interviews to gain further insight from this influential figure within the crypto community.
During one such interview, multiple questions were posed. However, Hoskinson emphasized that some topics are too sensitive for open discussion. Instead, he focused on why few industry leaders have voiced similar apprehensions. He suggested that many within the crypto ecosystem seem hesitant or unwilling to address these issues publicly.
Hoskinson Warns About Trump’s Influence on Cryptocurrency
When Trump launched his own meme coin just days after taking office as president, Hoskinson issued a cautionary statement about potential negative repercussions for America’s cryptocurrency sector.
Initially viewed as a bipartisan effort aimed at establishing clear digital asset regulations in the US, this initiative quickly devolved into a politically charged controversy.
This shift created substantial barriers for essential legislation and offered critics an easy target within the crypto industry—especially with midterm elections approaching in 2026.
“Once Trump’s coin entered the scene, the narrative changed from ‘crypto is bipartisan’ to ‘crypto equals Trump,’ which became associated with corruption and negativity,” Hoskinson explained. He noted how this transformation turned into a campaign slogan ahead of next year's midterms.
The Cardano founder urged other cryptocurrency pioneers to speak out on these matters but found that very few did so openly—a fact he found surprising. According to him, many were discouraged or even warned against commenting publicly due to fears their access would be revoked if they spoke up—meaning exclusion from legislative discussions or meetings involving Trump himself.
Although initially accepted by some players in the field,Hoskinson pointed out how Trump’s entanglement with crypto blurred boundaries between policy-making and personal interests—damaging Washington’s perception of digital assets during critical regulatory debates.
The aftermath saw significant disruption across markets, with Hoskinson suggesting that should Democrats regain control, Trump might face calls for testimony regarding these developments.
Caution Regarding Trump’s World Liberty Financial Venture
Ahead of launching his meme coin,Tump along with family members and business associates initiated an ambitious project called World Liberty Financial while still campaigning for election commitments slated for November.
The Cardano leader voiced skepticism about both its timing and implications. “While anyone can undertake private ventures as citizens,””’’', he said,“if you’re going public like this,you must recognize people are closely watching your moves.”
“Jumping headfirst without established rules isn’t wise,” he added.“It makes more sense first set clear guidelines then proceed accordingly.I’m not saying avoid launching initiatives likeTrump CoinorWorld Liberty,but ensure they comply fullywith regulatory frameworks.”