The recent presidential debate has left many wondering if Joe Biden will be replaced as the Democratic candidate. While some potential candidates have been mentioned, their views on cryptocurrency remain largely unknown. As the crypto industry continues to grow, it's essential to understand where these candidates stand on the issue.

Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California, has taken a neutral stance on crypto. He signed an executive order in 2022 to establish a crypto framework for his state, but later vetoed a bill that would have created a licensing framework for crypto companies. Newsom believes that a more flexible approach is needed to regulate the rapidly evolving technology. Despite his neutral stance, Newsom sees blockchain technology as something that will become more predominant in our lives.

Sherrod Brown, a Senator from Ohio, has been critical of crypto. He believes that crypto platforms often lack common sense protections, such as know-your-customer rules, which keep illicit finance away from traditional sectors. Brown has also criticized the industry's fallout following the collapse of FTX in 2022. However, he has shown some willingness to regulate stablecoins, which are a type of cryptocurrency pegged to the value of a traditional currency.

Dean Phillips, a former presidential candidate, has not been very vocal about crypto, but has shown some interest in the industry. He attended a crypto event in December and expressed support for a crypto market structure bill called FIT21. Phillips also likes the privacy elements of crypto, but believes it should not come at a cost and should not be used nefariously.

The other potential candidates, including Kamala Harris, Gretchen Whitmer, and Michelle Obama, have not taken a stance on crypto. This lack of opinion could be seen as a blank slate, allowing them to be educated on the issue. As the crypto industry continues to evolve, it's essential for policymakers to understand its potential and risks. The candidates' stance on crypto could play a significant role in shaping the future of the industry.