On Wednesday, September 18, former US President Donald Trump made headlines by purchasing burgers and beers using bitcoin at PubKey, a Manhattan bar known for its crypto-themed events.
This event, which took place just days after the launch of Trump’s new cryptocurrency venture, World Liberty Financial, a significant shift in Trump’s stance on digital currencies. The event was more than just a lighthearted moment; it represented a strategic role as Trump positions himself within the growing crypto community during his 2024 presidential campaign.
This video was captured by Trump’s Deputy Director of Communications, Margo Martin, Trump is seen enthusiastically handing out burgers to patrons at PubKey, playfully referring to them as “Crypto burgers” and “Bitcoin burgers.” As he handed out the burgers, Trump was heard engaging with the crowd, signalling not just a symbolic moment but also a strategic move in his efforts to appeal to a tech-savvy, financially conscious voter base.
PubKey, is not average New York City bar. Located in Greenwich Village, PubKey is known for accepting bitcoin and hosting regular cryptocurrency events and meetups, making it a hot spot for crypto enthusiasts in the area. The bar’s social media account quickly highlighted the significance of the transaction, calling it “one of the most historic transactions in #bitcoin history.” The excitement surrounding Trump’s appearance and bitcoin purchase reflected the increasing mainstream acceptance of cryptocurrency in U.S. politics and everyday transactions.
Trump’s embrace of cryptocurrency is a sharp departure from his previous skepticism. In the past, Trump had openly criticized digital currencies, famously stating that he was “not a fan” of bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. However, his recent actions, including this high-profile purchase and the launch of World Liberty Financial, indicate a shift in his attitude toward digital assets. World Liberty Financial, a decentralized finance (DeFi) project led by Trump and his sons, Donald Jr. and Eric, features a governance token called WLFI, aimed at accredited investors. The venture aligns with Trump’s broader campaign narrative of positioning the United States as the “crypto capital” of the world.
In a 2024 political landscape that is rapidly evolving, cryptocurrency is playing a larger role in shaping discussions around the future of the economy, financial freedom, and regulation. Since May, Trump’s campaign has begun accepting donations in crypto, signaling a growing acknowledgment of the role digital currencies could play in political fundraising and campaigning.
During his visit to PubKey, Trump also took the opportunity to speak directly to the crowd of bitcoin enthusiasts, urging them to vote in the upcoming election. He stressed the importance of voter turnout, stating, “Get out and vote, because if you vote, we cannot lose. We want to get everybody that agrees with you people and there’s a lot of people [to vote].”
In a nod to the crypto community’s ongoing battle with regulators, Trump also took a push at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), criticizing their treatment of the crypto industry. “They’ve been treating you very badly at the SEC, and we’re going to treat you very fairly,” Trump said, signaling his intent to create a more favorable regulatory environment for digital assets if re-elected.
One of PubKey’s owners, Thomas Pacchia, who escorted Trump during the visit, described the bitcoin purchase as one of the “most important Bitcoin transactions of all time.” Pacchia added, “President Trump came to PubKey to connect with the Bitcoin community — to show his support to the Bitcoin community.” This interaction underscored Trump’s growing relationship with the digital asset community and his campaign’s broader narrative of embracing digital assets.
Trump’s bitcoin purchase at PubKey, while playful, symbolizes a key moment in his evolving approach to the crypto world. It reflects a broader strategy of appealing to voters who are invested in the future of decentralized finance and digital currencies.
As cryptocurrencies become more integrated into daily life and political discourse, Trump’s newfound support for the space demonstrates his efforts to stay relevant in a rapidly changing financial landscape. With World Liberty Financial and his broader campaign narrative, Trump is positioning himself at the relation of politics and cryptocurrency, a space that continues to grow in influence and importance.
