Bitcoin Advocate Ian Calderon Enters California Governor Race
Ian Calderon, a prominent Bitcoin advocate and former California Assembly member, has thrown his hat into the ring for the state's gubernatorial election. The Democrat, known for his pragmatic approach, seeks to address issues like the high cost of living and housing crisis while aiming to make California a leader in Bitcoin adoption.
Calderon, who served three terms in the California Legislature and became the youngest majority leader, has a history of supporting cryptocurrencies. From 2020 to 2022, he contributed to the Blockchain Working Group roadmap and authored the 2018 bill AB 2658, establishing the California Blockchain Working Group. In early 2022, he worked on a bill to consider Bitcoin as legal tender alongside Dennis Porter, CEO of the Satoshi Action Fund.
His candidacy announcement highlighted the challenges faced by Californians, including the high cost of living and housing crisis. Calderon promised to include Bitcoin in the state's balance sheet if elected, a move that has sparked both support and skepticism within the Bitcoin community. Some welcome his advocacy, while others express disappointment or doubt about his intentions. Calderon's uncles, Ron and Tom, were involved in a public corruption case in 2016, although Calderon himself has a strong track record as a Bitcoin supporter.
Ian Calderon's candidacy brings Bitcoin advocacy to the forefront of the California gubernatorial race. If elected, he plans to make California a leader in Bitcoin adoption and include it in the state's balance sheet. Despite mixed reactions from the Bitcoin community, Calderon's pragmatic approach and history of supporting cryptocurrencies may influence the election and the state's financial landscape.
