A majority of registered voters in key US swing states have expressed dissatisfaction with the current financial system, while also showing significant interest in crypto, according to a extensive new research published by the Blockchain Association on May 7.
The survey, conducted by Harris Poll, surveyed more than 1,200 registered voters in Michigan, Nevada, Ohio, Montana, Pennsylvania and Arizona.
The report shows widespread dissatisfaction with the current financial system, with 80% of respondents agreeing that it favors elites over ordinary people, and 79% saying it lacks transparency.
Conversely, only 38% of respondents believed the financial system was for “people like me,” and only 26% saw it as fair to everyone. Despite this dissatisfaction, many respondents expressed positive feelings about their own financial health.
Notable interest in crypto
Interest in crypto was notable among voters surveyed. While current cryptocurrency ownership stood at 14%, almost a third of respondents (31%) expressed positive feelings towards cryptocurrency, associating it with attributes such as innovation and accessibility.
The report highlighted a “Crypto-positive” group of voters who were more enthusiastic about digital assets and saw it as a potential path to financial security and prosperity. One voter in the survey said:
“Crypto represents a new path to financial security and prosperity.”
The report added that the statement reflects the sentiments of many who see crypto as the future of financial transactions.
Political implications
The report also highlighted the political implications of this stance: 40% of respondents wished political candidates would talk more about digital currencies.
Additionally, nearly half of voters expressed distrust of candidates who dabble in crypto, while 30% said they would be more likely to support a candidate who is friendly to digital assets.
The report highlighted the potential electoral benefits for candidates who demonstrate an understanding of the technology. Based on the survey responses, she noted:
“Talking about crypto in an informed way can help candidates for a position stand out.”
The report also addressed the need for sensible regulation, with a majority of respondents supporting an overhaul of crypto regulation and expressing a desire for government protection of consumers and investors.
The study suggested that measured regulation could appeal to a broad voter base, both those who are enthusiastic about crypto and those who are skeptical of it.
Overall, the report highlights the changing attitudes of voters in key swing states toward both the traditional financial system and emerging digital currencies, presenting potential opportunities and challenges for political candidates in the upcoming elections.