Charles Hoskinson Criticizes USAID’s Funding of Book Linking Bitcoin to Extremism

In a recent development, Charles Hoskinson, the founder of Cardano, has expressed criticism towards the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) for providing funding for a book that links Bitcoin to right-wing extremism.

According to recent disclosures by WikiLeaks, USAID has funded a book called “Cyberlibertarianism: The Right-Wing Politics of Digital Technology” authored by David Golumbia, which connects Bitcoin to extremist ideologies. Published by the University of Minnesota Press, the book reportedly received over $80,000 in funding from the U.S. government.

Hoskinson took to social media to express his frustration, referring to this portrayal of Bitcoin as “garbage.” He tweeted, “So apparently, USAID is funding the production of propaganda that says Bitcoin is right-wing extremism. I’m so done with this garbage.”

This controversy arises amidst broader scrutiny of USAID’s activities. The Trump administration has recently issued an executive order leading to a freeze in funding for the agency, affecting its global humanitarian efforts. Reports suggest that some USAID staff members are also on leave, and the agency’s future remains uncertain.

Backing Hoskinson’s criticism, Representative French Hill, chairman of the House Financial Services Committee (HFSC), commented on USAID’s spending. He mentioned that Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is examining the agency’s budget. Hill also highlighted that Secretary of State Mike Rubio, who oversees USAID, will be involved in decisions regarding its future funding.

Hoskinson’s critique sheds light on the ongoing debate surrounding how Bitcoin is portrayed and the role of government funding in crypto research. Supporters of Bitcoin argue that these narratives aim to undermine decentralized technologies, which they perceive as tools for financial inclusion and economic freedom.

Tags: Bitcoin, Crypto news