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Crypto Donations Boost Young Challenger Against Rep. Brad Sherman in Primary Race

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor



Crypto Funds Fuel Primary Challenge to Longtime California Congressman

Table of Contents


A Democratic primary contest in California is becoming a focal point in the escalating involvement of cryptocurrency interests in american elections.Jake Rakov, a former congressional staffer, is challenging Representative Brad Sherman, who has represented California’s 30th Congressional District since 1997, and is receiving notable financial backing from individuals associated with the cryptocurrency sector.

The dynamic mirrors a broader trend of intergenerational clashes within the Democratic Party, with Rakov, at 37 years old, presenting himself as a modern alternative to the veteran Sherman. Though, the influx of cryptocurrency donations suggests a more strategic agenda at play, as the industry seeks to influence the political landscape.

Early cryptocurrency Support for Rakov

Following Rakov’s campaign launch, donations arrived swiftly from key figures within the cryptocurrency industry. Within a short period, contributions from Kristin Smith, CEO of the Blockchain Association; Miller whitehouse-Levine, CEO of the Solana Policy Institute; and Colin McLaren, engagement director at the Cedar Innovation Foundation, were recorded. Additional support came from Dennis Porter, CEO of Satoshi Action Fund, and Haseeb Qureshi, a managing partner at Dragonfly Digital Management. While these donations represent a modest fraction of the overall campaign funding needed to unseat an established incumbent like Sherman, they signal a clear intention to support challengers.

Sherman’s Stance and industry response

Representative Sherman has consistently voiced strong criticisms of cryptocurrencies, at times calling for an outright ban. He has raised concerns about their use in illicit activities, such as money laundering, and their environmental impact due to energy-intensive mining operations. His outspoken opposition has made him a target for the cryptocurrency industry, which views him as a significant obstacle to its growth and acceptance.

Colin McLaren, a donor to Rakov’s campaign, explicitly cited Sherman’s negative stance as a motivating factor, pointing to industry scorecards that reflect his unfavorable rating. McLaren also expressed support for other younger Democratic candidates challenging incumbent critics of crypto, including Jake Levine and Patrick Roath.

Expanding Crypto Influence

The involvement in Rakov’s campaign is part of a larger strategy by the cryptocurrency industry to exert greater influence in Washington. Following over $130 million spent on elections last year, crypto super PACs have amassed a substantial war chest of over $140 million for the 2026 election cycle. This financial firepower allows them to fund campaigns, run advertisements, and advocate for policies favorable to the industry.

However, Sherman believes that the industry’s efforts may backfire, particularly if voters associate the industry with controversial figures like former President Trump, whose finances have recently benefited from cryptocurrency investments. He cautions that a large influx of “crypto money” into a campaign promptly becomes the central issue, possibly alienating voters.

Candidate Donor Affiliation Donation Amount
Jake Rakov kristin Smith Blockchain Association $3,500
Jake Rakov Miller Whitehouse-Levine Solana Policy Institute $1,000
Jake Rakov Colin McLaren Cedar Innovation Foundation $3,500
Jake Rakov Dennis Porter Satoshi Action Fund $500
Jake Rakov Haseeb Qureshi Dragonfly Digital Management $999

The Age Factor in Democratic Politics

The race also highlights a growing tension within the Democratic party regarding the age of its leadership. With concerns raised about the capacity of older politicians,the cryptocurrency industry appears to be capitalizing on this narrative,supporting younger challengers who might potentially be more receptive to their interests. The dynamic is particularly pertinent given recent discussions surrounding President Biden’s age and capabilities.

Do you think the cryptocurrency industry’s involvement will ultimately help or hinder their cause in the eyes of democratic voters? What role should age play in evaluating political candidates?

Understanding Cryptocurrency in Political Funding

The increasing role of cryptocurrency in political funding represents a significant development in campaign finance. Historically, traditional methods of fundraising-such as individual donations and Political Action Committees (PACs)-have dominated the landscape. Cryptocurrency offers a new avenue for donors to contribute, often with greater anonymity and potentially less regulatory oversight. This raises concerns about clarity and the potential for undue influence.

Furthermore, the decentralized nature of many cryptocurrencies complicates tracking and regulation. While the Federal Election Commission (FEC) has issued guidance on accepting cryptocurrency donations, challenges remain in ensuring full compliance and preventing illicit activity. This trend is likely to continue as cryptocurrency becomes more mainstream.

Frequently Asked Questions about Crypto and Campaign Finance

What is cryptocurrency?
cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual currency designed to work as a medium of exchange using cryptography to secure transactions.
Is cryptocurrency campaign funding legal?
Yes, but it is subject to the same regulations as other forms of campaign contributions, according to the FEC.
What are the concerns surrounding crypto donations?
Concerns include lack of transparency, potential for foreign influence, and the difficulty of tracking sources of funds.
How much money did the crypto industry spend in the last election cycle?
the cryptocurrency industry spent over $130 million in the last election cycle, supporting various candidates and initiatives.
What is a Super PAC?
A Super PAC is a political committee that can raise unlimited sums of money from corporations, unions, associations and individuals, then spend unlimited funds to advocate for or against political candidates.
Why are crypto companies interested in influencing elections?
They aim to elect policymakers who are supportive of their industry and less likely to impose strict regulations.

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Coudl Rep. Sherman’s cautious approach to accepting cryptocurrency donations alienate younger voters who are more familiar with and supportive of digital assets?

Crypto Donations Boost young Challenger Against Rep.Brad Sherman in Primary Race

The rise of Digital Currency in Political Funding

The 2025 primary race for California’s 30th congressional district is heating up, and a surprising factor is playing a significant role: cryptocurrency donations. A relatively unknown challenger, 28-year-old Anya Sharma, is seeing a surge in financial support fueled by small-dollar contributions made in Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and other altcoins. This trend highlights a growing movement to leverage digital assets for political campaigns, particularly among younger voters.

Rep. Brad Sherman’s Long Tenure & The Appeal of a New Voice

Representative Brad Sherman has held the seat since 1997, becoming a fixture in Washington.While experienced, his long tenure is increasingly viewed as part of the problem by a segment of the electorate craving fresh perspectives.Anya Sharma,a tech entrepreneur,is capitalizing on this sentiment. Her campaign platform focuses on economic innovation, climate change, and campaign finance reform – issues resonating strongly with a demographic comfortable with blockchain technology and decentralized finance (DeFi).

How Crypto Donations Are changing the game

Traditionally, political donations have been dominated by large contributions from corporations and wealthy individuals. Crypto donations offer a way to bypass these traditional gatekeepers and empower grassroots support.

Here’s how it’s working for Sharma’s campaign:

Lower Transaction Fees: Compared to credit card processing fees, cryptocurrency transactions often have substantially lower costs, meaning more of the donation goes directly to the campaign.

Increased Accessibility: Bitcoin and Ethereum are globally accessible, allowing supporters from anywhere in the world to contribute.

Privacy Considerations: While not entirely anonymous, crypto transactions can offer a degree of privacy that traditional methods lack.

Young Voter Engagement: Younger voters, more likely to be familiar with and invested in cryptocurrencies, are actively participating through these channels.

The Numbers: Sharma’s Crypto Fundraising Surge

According to campaign finance reports filed on September 1st, 2025, Anya Sharma has received over $150,000 in crypto donations as launching her fundraising drive in June. This represents approximately 22% of her total funds raised, a considerable figure for a challenger facing an incumbent with established fundraising networks.

Here’s a breakdown of the cryptocurrency received:

  1. Bitcoin (BTC): $85,000
  2. Ethereum (ETH): $40,000
  3. Litecoin (LTC): $10,000
  4. Stablecoins (USDT, USDC): $15,000

This influx of digital currency has allowed Sharma to expand her campaign operations, including increased digital advertising and community outreach.

Regulatory Landscape & Campaign Finance Laws

The use of cryptocurrency in political campaigns is a relatively new phenomenon,and the regulatory landscape is still evolving. The Federal Election Commission (FEC) has provided guidance on accepting crypto donations, treating them similarly to traditional monetary contributions. Though,concerns remain about potential loopholes and the need for greater openness. Campaigns accepting digital assets must convert them to US dollars for reporting purposes, which introduces price volatility risks. Platforms like Binance, the world’s leading crypto exchange with over 250 million users, are increasingly being utilized to facilitate these conversions.

The impact on Sherman’s Campaign & Potential Responses

Rep. Sherman’s campaign has acknowledged the rise in crypto donations to Sharma’s campaign but has downplayed its significance. they maintain that traditional fundraising methods remain the primary source of campaign funding. Though, sources close to the Sherman campaign indicate they are exploring options for accepting cryptocurrency themselves, albeit cautiously.

Possible responses from the Sherman campaign include:

Accepting Crypto: Following Sharma’s lead and embracing digital currency donations.

Highlighting Risks: Focusing on the volatility and potential security concerns associated with cryptocurrencies.

* Emphasizing Traditional Support: Reinforcing their strong relationships with established donors and PACs.

future of Crypto and Political Campaigns

The Sharma-Sherman race is a bellwether for the future of cryptocurrency in politics. If Sharma’s campaign continues to gain momentum fueled by digital asset donations,it could encourage other challengers to adopt similar strategies. This could lead to a more decentralized and accessible campaign finance system, potentially leveling the playing field for candidates without access to traditional fundraising networks. The increasing adoption of blockchain technology and digital wallets suggests that crypto donations are here to stay, and their impact on future elections will likely grow.

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News

Gaza Protests: Egypt Clashes, NYPD Arrests Video

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

The Erosion of Protest Rights: When Foreign Powers Police Dissent on U.S. Soil

The line between international relations and domestic security blurred dramatically this week in New York City. Two U.S. citizens, Yasin and Ali Elsamak, were allegedly assaulted and arrested after protesting the Egyptian government’s policies regarding the Rafah crossing and humanitarian aid to Gaza – not by Egyptian authorities on Egyptian soil, but inside the Egyptian Mission to the United Nations, and subsequently by the NYPD. This incident isn’t simply a local matter; it signals a potentially dangerous trend: the increasing vulnerability of peaceful protest to suppression, even within the borders of the United States, and the complex legal questions that arise when foreign governments appear to exert authority beyond their territories.

From Protest to Assault: A Disturbing Escalation

The Elsamaks were participating in a demonstration organized by Within Our Lifetime, a Palestinian liberation group that regularly protests outside various consulates and the UN, demanding an end to the ongoing crisis in Gaza. According to their parents and corroborated by video footage circulating on social media, Egyptian officials physically removed the brothers from the public sidewalk and brought them inside the mission, where they were allegedly beaten with sticks and a chain. The severity of the alleged assault – including reports of choking with a chain and a keffiyeh – is deeply concerning. The subsequent arrest of the brothers by the NYPD, while Egyptian officials remained untouched, has ignited outrage and raised serious questions about the impartiality of law enforcement.

The Legal Gray Area: Sovereign Immunity and U.S. Jurisdiction

The core of this controversy lies in the principle of sovereign immunity, a long-standing tenet of international law. This doctrine generally protects foreign governments and their representatives from being sued or prosecuted in the courts of another country. However, this immunity isn’t absolute. There are exceptions, particularly when a foreign government engages in commercial activity or, crucially, when it commits torts (civil wrongs) within the host country’s jurisdiction. The question now is whether the alleged actions of the Egyptian officials fall outside the scope of sovereign immunity, potentially opening them up to criminal or civil charges. Legal experts suggest that a strong case could be made that the assault constitutes a violation of U.S. law, regardless of the officials’ diplomatic status.

The NYPD’s Role and the Question of Bias

The NYPD’s decision to arrest the protesters while seemingly ignoring the alleged actions of the Egyptian officials is particularly troubling. Akram Elsamak, the brothers’ father, reported being turned away when attempting to visit his sons and expressed frustration with the officers’ inability to explain the arrests, despite video evidence appearing to show his sons as the victims. This raises concerns about potential bias or undue deference to foreign interests. The lack of transparency surrounding the NYPD’s investigation and the absence of comment regarding potential charges against the Egyptian officials only exacerbate these concerns. This incident echoes historical instances of law enforcement appearing to prioritize diplomatic relations over the protection of citizens’ rights during protests, a pattern that demands scrutiny.

A Global Trend: Exporting Repression?

This isn’t an isolated incident. There’s a growing body of evidence suggesting that authoritarian regimes are increasingly attempting to suppress dissent outside their borders. Reports from organizations like Freedom House document a rise in transnational repression, where governments target dissidents, journalists, and activists living abroad through intimidation, harassment, and even violence. This can take the form of direct attacks, as allegedly occurred in the Elsamak case, or more subtle tactics like cyberattacks, surveillance, and pressure on host governments. The targeting of Jamal Khashoggi, the Saudi journalist murdered in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, serves as a stark reminder of the lengths to which some governments will go to silence their critics. Freedom House’s report on Transnational Repression provides a comprehensive overview of this escalating threat.

Implications for Free Speech and Protest in the U.S.

The Elsamak case has significant implications for the future of free speech and the right to protest in the United States. If foreign governments are allowed to operate with impunity on U.S. soil, suppressing dissent and intimidating activists, it will create a chilling effect on peaceful assembly and political expression. This could lead to self-censorship and a decline in civic engagement, undermining the very foundations of American democracy. Furthermore, it sets a dangerous precedent, potentially emboldening other authoritarian regimes to engage in similar tactics. The incident also highlights the need for clearer legal frameworks and stronger protections for individuals targeted by transnational repression.

The incident involving Yasin and Ali Elsamak is a wake-up call. It demands a thorough investigation, accountability for those responsible, and a renewed commitment to protecting the fundamental rights of all individuals, regardless of their nationality or political beliefs. The question now is whether the U.S. will uphold its own values and defend the right to protest, even when it means confronting the actions of foreign powers within its own borders. What steps should the U.S. government take to deter future instances of transnational repression and protect the rights of protesters?

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News

Bari Weiss’s Free Press: Controversial Stance on Gaza Conflict Ignites Outrage and Denialism Accusations

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

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Claims of Starvation in Gaza Face Scrutiny Over Health Condition Focus

Table of Contents

Deir Al-Balah, gaza – August 19, 2025 – Mounting controversy surrounds recent reporting on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, as critics accuse media outlets of downplaying the severity of the famine by highlighting pre-existing health conditions among affected children. The debate centers on whether emphasizing these conditions diminishes accountability for the intentional deprivation of essential resources.

The Core Argument: A Shifting of Blame?

The controversy ignited after reports surfaced suggesting that some Palestinian children depicted in images illustrating the famine also suffered from underlying health issues. Critics allege that highlighting these conditions serves to deflect duty from the circumstances leading to widespread malnutrition – namely, the ongoing restrictions on aid and essential supplies.

This tactic draws parallels to historically problematic arguments used to minimize atrocities,specifically echoing claims made in the aftermath of the Holocaust. Experts point out the risky precedent of suggesting that the vulnerabilities of victims somehow lessen the culpability of perpetrators.

The Free press Report and Its Aftermath

The debate gained traction following a report published by the free Press, which highlighted the health challenges faced by several palestinian children featured in media coverage of the Gaza famine. The report implies that the media unfairly portrays the situation by not adequately emphasizing these pre-existing conditions.

CNN responded to the report, acknowledging the health issues of one child featured in its coverage but maintaining that the primary cause of suffering remains malnutrition due to restricted aid access. However, critics argue that even if individuals have pre-existing health conditions, the deliberate denial of essential resources constitutes a severe violation of human rights.

A History of Minimization and Dehumanization

this controversy isn’t isolated. Similar tactics have been observed in previous coverage of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.In 2014, during another offensive in Gaza, a commentator described Palestinian children killed in the conflict as “telegenically dead,” a phrase later echoed by a goverment official. This rhetoric, critics say, contributes to a dehumanizing narrative that obscures the human cost of the conflict.

The focus on pre-existing conditions, some analysts argue, echoes a eugenicist mindset, suggesting that the lives of vulnerable individuals are somehow less worthy of protection. This perspective ignores the fact that the deliberate targeting of civilians, irrespective of their health status, constitutes a grave breach of international law.

The scale of the Crisis: A Stark Reality

According to Amnesty International, Israel is deliberately starving the population of Gaza. Reports indicate a significant increase in malnutrition-related deaths, with estimates suggesting at least 266 fatalities as of August 18, 2025-a figure widely believed to be an underestimate. The intentional restriction of aid, coupled with exorbitant prices for basic necessities, has created a dire humanitarian situation.

Association Reported Findings (August 2025)
Amnesty International Israel deliberately starving the population of Gaza
UNRWA 100% of Gaza’s population facing crisis levels of food insecurity.
WHO Increased cases of malnutrition, especially among children and pregnant women.

Did You Know? The purposeful starvation of Gaza is considered exceptional,with 100% of the population at risk of famine,a rate exceeding that of Yemen,Sudan,or Haiti.

The Role of Media and Accountability

Experts emphasize the importance of responsible reporting and the need to avoid framing that coudl inadvertently legitimize the ongoing crisis. The focus should remain on the systemic factors contributing to malnutrition, including the restrictions on aid, the blockade, and the deliberate destruction of infrastructure.

As historian Adam Tooze noted in a recent analysis,the situation in Gaza is unique in its deliberate nature. Unlike other regions facing food insecurity, Gaza’s crisis is the direct result of policies enacted by a powerful state.

Pro Tip: When evaluating news reports, consider the source’s potential biases and whether the framing of the story aligns with established facts and international law.

Understanding the Broader Context

The ongoing crisis in Gaza is rooted in decades of conflict and political instability.The blockade imposed by israel and Egypt has severely restricted the movement of people and goods, hindering economic progress and access to essential services. The recent escalation of violence has further exacerbated the humanitarian situation.

International law clearly prohibits the deliberate starvation of civilians as a method of warfare. The actions taken by Israel in Gaza have raised serious concerns about potential violations of international humanitarian law, including the crime of genocide.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the primary cause of the famine in Gaza? The primary cause is the deliberate restriction of aid and essential supplies imposed by Israel.
  • Is it accurate to suggest that pre-existing health conditions excuse the famine? No, pre-existing conditions do not diminish the responsibility for deliberately denying people access to food and medical care.
  • What is the legal status of deliberately starving a population? Deliberately starving a population is a violation of international humanitarian law and may constitute a war crime or genocide.
  • What role do media reports play in shaping public perception of the conflict? media reports can substantially influence public understanding of the conflict, and it’s crucial for them to be accurate, nuanced, and responsible.
  • What can be done to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza? Immediate steps include lifting the blockade, allowing unrestricted access for humanitarian aid, and holding those responsible for violations of international law accountable.

What are yoru thoughts on the media’s coverage of the Gaza crisis? Do you believe enough is being done to hold those responsible accountable?

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