Elon Musk Confirms Trump Will Pardon Ross Ulbricht
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According to Angela McArdle, chair of the Libertarian National Committee (LNC), Ulbricht’s pardon could be announced within the next 24 hours.
Ulbricht’s Legal Battle and Support for His Release
Ulbricht was sentenced to life in prison in 2015 for running the Silk Road marketplace, which facilitated illicit transactions. While he was not convicted of direct harm, he was found guilty of enabling illegal activities.
Since his imprisonment, Ulbricht has expressed remorse, pursued education, and advocated for criminal justice reform. Trump previously promised to commute his sentence, a pledge he reiterated at the Libertarian National Convention in 2024.
On Polymarket, traders currently estimate a 94% chance that Trump will pardon Ulbricht within his first 100 days in office.
Trump’s Crypto Stance: Signs of Regulatory Change
Despite expectations, Trump’s inauguration speech did not mention crypto. However, his administration’s actions suggest a pro-crypto shift.
Key pro-crypto figures have been appointed, including:
✅ Paul Atkins – SEC Chair
✅ Caroline Pham – CFTC Head
✅ David Sacks – AI & Crypto Czar
Industry leaders anticipate crypto-friendly executive orders, including easing banking restrictions on digital assets.