In an unexpected twist that has left the Bitcoin community scratching their heads, Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts has reportedly recognized Bitcoin’s 15th anniversary. Not only this, but she has also honored its creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, by requesting a commemorative flag flown over the U.S. Capitol, under Capitol Flag Program.
Despite initial skepticism, Satoshi Action Fund’s CEO Dennis Porter confirmed the authenticity, calling it the “best political troll” in a long time.
A Bitcoin U-Turn?
Known for her historical opposition to Bitcoin, Senator Warren’s surprising move initially caught many off guard. After years of dismissing Bitcoin as a tool for criminals and terrorists, she seems to have embraced the digital asset’s principles.
In participation in the Capitol Flag Program, Senator Warren’s office reportedly submitted a request to fly the U.S. colors over the Capitol on December 18, 2023—a date fondly known to Bitcoiners as HODL Day.
However, on February 15, it was revealed that the flag request was a troll job orchestrated by her office, where someone essentially donated to her campaign to have the paper printed with her name on it.
While the primary program accepts requests from Members of Congress, individuals also have the option to request a flag through the offices of representatives and senators. Warren’s office imposes a fee ranging from $15 to $27 per flag, with an additional $9.00 charge to have the flag flown over the Capitol. This suggests that an unidentified individual likely sponsored the flag request for that specified amount.
Notably, as Bitcoin advisor Aubrey Strobel explains, a senator or a constituent representative can make a small donation for a flag to fly over the Capitol. She explains:
“After it’s flown, the flag is sent to the requester along with a certificate of authenticity noting the date it was flown and the occasion.”
Interestingly, as per the images of the certificate circulating, Warren recognizes Nakamoto’s contribution to creating a “truly inclusive financial system.”
This implies that while Warren or her staff may have signed the pertinent certificate, the statement on the certificate does not necessarily reflect Warren’s opinions.
PubKey’s Dramatic Unveiling
Despite the clarification of this certification being a troll, NYC’s PubKey stumbled upon the filing for the flag and decided to host a public event. The event not only unveiled the flag but also a dramatized reading by none other than actor and Bitcoin enthusiast T.J. Miller.
Whether Warren is aware of the joke or not, this certificate has taken the celebration to a whole new level of Bitcoin authenticity.
From Criticism to Commendation
Senator Warren’s recent actions, including her proposal for new legislation to curb the criminal use of Bitcoin, raised eyebrows. It is important to note that just a week before her office reportedly ordered the flag, Warren pushed for the Digital Asset Anti-Money Laundering Act against digital assets’ role in enabling various illegal activities.
Warren’s staunch opposition to digital assets was highlighted when she went to the extent of proposing the formation of an “anti-crypto army” in March 2023 during her reelection campaign. She expressed her concerns about Bitcoin’s inclusion in 401(k)s in a letter written to Fidelity CEO Abigail Johnson in May 2022. In the letter, Warren labeled investing in digital assets as a “risky and speculative gamble.”
Thomas Pacchia, co-founder of PubKey, acknowledges the significance of this unexpected recognition, stating:
“This is a historic moment for how politicians in Washington view the promise and inclusivity of the Bitcoin protocol. What politicians do is much more important than what they say.”
Satoshi in Capitol Flag Program: Social Media Storm
As the news of Senator Warren’s change of heart circulates, social media is buzzing with reactions. Some are shocked, others call it fake news, and some question Warren’s mental state, calling her bipolar.
Nonetheless, one thing remains certain: the digital asset world has been treated to a whimsical plot twist. It has left the community wondering if April 1st arrived early or if Senator Warren has indeed found peace with bitcoin.
