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The cryptocurrency space has experienced multiple major advancements today, involving election safeguards, payment system enhancements and political consequences. New York legislative bodies introduced blockchain research to improve electoral record security.
At the same time, Kraken joined forces with Mastercard for crypto debit cards targeting European and UK markets and Argentine deputies started investigating President Javier Milei's involvement in the Libra crypto controversy. Such developments increase the visibility of blockchain in different fields, including politics and finance.
Assemblymember Clyde Vanel introduced Bill A07716 on April 8, urging the New York State Board of Elections to explore blockchain technology. The legislation tries to determine how this tamper-resistant system can protect voter records and election results.
Vanel, an active and vocal supporter of various crypto projects, is convinced that blockchain can enhance the transparency of democratization processes. The bill gives the committee one year to prepare the detailed report, which should also include input from cybersecurity professionals and lawmakers specializing in voter fraud.
This move aligns with broader trends in the U.S., where states like Tennessee have already tested blockchain for election data storage. Experts note that while blockchain ensures secure record-keeping, it cannot verify the accuracy of data entered. Vanel’s proposal, now under review by the Assembly Election Law Committee, could set a precedent for election modernization if passed, says election technology analyst Sarah Thompson.
Kraken, a cryptocurrency exchange, established a strategic alliance with Mastercard on April 8 to develop debit cards for cryptocurrency payments across Europe and the UK. Through the new partnership, users can spend cryptocurrencies and stablecoins directly, and Mastercard has launched a waiting list for the upcoming card deployment.
Kraken co-CEO David Ripley stated that this move would enable crypto to become a seamless part of everyday transactions while improving their usefulness.
The initiative builds on Kraken Pay a service launched in January 2025 that has attracted over 200,000 users. The debit card launch coincides with Kraken’s pursuit of a license under the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA). Industry observer James Carter called it a “game-changer” for crypto adoption, bridging digital assets with traditional finance.
According to the Buenos Aires Times, Argentina’s Chamber of Deputies voted 128-93 on April 8 to investigate President Javier Milei’s alleged involvement in the Libra cryptocurrency scandal. The decision revives a probe stalled in the Senate, focusing on Milei’s social media promotion of the memecoin, which soared to a $4 billion market cap before crashing. Critics, including lawyer Jonatan Baldiviezo, accuse Milei of aiding a $251 million “rug pull” scam affecting over 40,000 investors.
Milei rejects the misconduct claims because he argues he only disseminated facts without endorsement. Public reports revealed that Hayden Davis bragged about giving money to Milei's sister to influence the leader despite Milei's denial of wrongdoing. According to economic expert Claudio Lozano research points to significant dangers when public officials endorse cryptocurrencies because it could damage Argentina's financial trust.
