Trump Reportedly Encouraged to Back XRP on Truth Social Platform, According to Recent Reveals
In early March, former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his support for several digital assets, including Ripple (XRP), Solana (SOL), and Cardano (ADA), on his Truth Social platform. This endorsement has raised eyebrows, as it comes amidst allegations of lobbying activities by Brian Ballard, a lobbyist from Ballard Partners.
According to reports, Ballard Partners has been involved in influencing Trump's public support for Ripple Labs and the "Crypto Strategic Reserve." The Washington Examiner revealed that Ballard Partners lobbied Congress and the White House on cryptocurrency regulation, with Ripple Labs being one of their crypto clients.
Trump's endorsement of the "Crypto Strategic Reserve" came shortly after a direct request from a Ballard lobbyist. However, it seems that Trump briefly punished Ballard for failing to disclose XRP as a client. This suggests some controversy but no formal criminal accusations.
Ballard Partners has denied claims of leveraging connections within the West Wing to attract clients. Despite this, some White House officials believe that Ballard has been using his association with President Trump to gain an edge.
Despite any potential controversy surrounding Ballard Partners, their clients have maintained access to high-ranking officials in the Trump administration. This includes a recent meeting between the president and executives from the NFL.
Ballard Partners has stated that they will continue to deliver results and effective advocacy for their clients, as they have done for over 25 years. They have also rejected any suggestion that they have been sidelined from the White House.
Politico has reviewed records of a planned call between Ballard and a senior Trump administration official, providing some supporting evidence for Ballard's statement regarding his connections with the White House. However, it's important to note that no criminal accusation or official legal charge against Ballard regarding this influence is indicated in the available information.
Trump reportedly told associates at the White House that Ballard is "not welcome in anything anymore." Despite this, Ballard Partners continues to operate and deliver results for their clients. White House staff were directed to avoid meetings with Ballard in the aftermath of President Trump's Truth Social post.
In conclusion, while the allegations against Ballard Partners are politically controversial and ethically questionable, there is no direct evidence or report framing Ballard as criminally accused. The lobbying activities and alleged non-disclosure remain the focus of these reports.
The Washington Examiner reported that Ballard Partners, a lobbying firm, has been catering to Ripple Labs' interests in cryptocurrency regulation. A magazine report also revealed that Ballard Partners was lobbying for the "Crypto Strategic Reserve," a project mentioned in Trump's Truth Social post.
