With just two months left before the U.S. presidential elections, the race has taken a dramatic turn. Recent odds from Polymarket show Vice President Kamala Harris narrowly leading former President Donald Trump, holding a slight edge with 50% odds compared to Trump’s 49%. While this margin is thin, it marks a significant shift, especially given Harris’s previous lag behind Trump in betting forecasts.
Debate Dynamics And Its Aftermath
The change in momentum became evident following the first presidential debate on September 10, where Trump and Harris squared off on a range of topics, from the economy to immigration. However, the much-anticipated discussion on cryptocurrencies was conspicuously absent. This omission left many in the crypto community disappointed and yearning for clarity on each candidate’s stance.
The debate performance was a critical factor in the shifting odds. Data from Polymarket indicated a striking consensus: 99% of voters deemed Harris the debate’s victor. Before the debate, Trump was leading with 53% of projected votes, while Harris was trailing at 45%. The post-debate period saw a dramatic tightening of the race, with both candidates now nearly tied at 49% each.
Trump’s New Crypto Move
In a bid to regain his position, Trump took to X (formerly Twitter) on September 12 to announce a significant development. He revealed plans to launch World Liberty Financial (WLF) on September 16, spearheaded by his sons, Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump. This initiative, described as a decentralized finance (DeFi) platform for borrowing and lending, was expected to energize his campaign and sway crypto enthusiasts.
However, the reaction to WLF has been underwhelming. The crypto community, which had previously supported Trump’s engagement with cryptocurrencies, has expressed skepticism. Trump’s foray into crypto, including participation in Bitcoin conferences, acceptance of crypto donations, NFT-themed dinners, and Bitcoin merchandise, had previously bolstered his standing among crypto supporters. Yet, the lukewarm reception of WLF has raised concerns about its potential impact and Trump’s future crypto engagement.
Also Read: Kamala Harris Outshines Trump In Debate – Polymarket Odds Shift, Crypto Talk Absent
Looking Ahead – What’s Next for the Race?
As the election nears, the potential impact of WLF on Trump’s campaign remains uncertain. Despite his strong crypto engagement and efforts to boost his poll numbers, recent criticism of WLF, including from Trump supporter Nic Carter, who described the project as a “huge mistake,” casts a shadow over its success.
In this volatile election landscape, Trump’s ability to regain the top spot on Polymarket will depend on the public’s response to WLF and how he addresses ongoing concerns. As the race heats up, both candidates will need to navigate these challenges carefully to secure a victory in November.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses.
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