John Deaton to Face Elizabeth Warren in Pivotal Senate Debate

Pro-crypto lawyer John Deaton, the Republican nominee for the Massachusetts Senate, confirmed his participation in a debate with Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren on October 15.

This marks the first debate between the two, providing a platform to discuss issues affecting voters.

Deaton Accuses Senator Warren of Big Bank Favoritism

In a post on social media platform X (Twitter), Deaton criticized the Democratic Senator for her shift from holding bankers accountable to supporting their interests. He noted that despite her earlier calls for prison sentences for bankers involved in the 2008 financial crisis, she later backed bank bailouts.

Deaton labeled Warren the country’s top lobbyist for big banks, urging voters to focus on politicians’ actions rather than words. He suggested Warren’s actions contradicted her previous promises.

“[Warren] decried how banking executives deserved prison time for causing the Great Financial Crisis – yet she supported the bailouts. Twelve years ago she promised she would go to Washington to hold those bankers accountable. A decade later, those same bankers write her bills,” Deaton stated.

Read more: Crypto Regulation: What Are the Benefits and Drawbacks?

Notably, Deaton has challenged Warren to five single-issue debates. He proposed topics such as immigration, the economy, income inequality, women’s reproductive rights, and foreign policy. Although Warren’s campaign confirmed two October debates, it’s unclear if cryptocurrency will be discussed.

Deaton’s Senate run stems from Warren’s consistent opposition to cryptocurrencies. Over the years, she has become a prominent figure in the Senate’s anti-crypto stance, even advocating for the formation of an “anti-crypto army” to limit the industry’s influence.

Deaton, a vocal supporter of Ripple and other crypto firms facing legal battles with the SEC, has gained backing from key figures in the crypto industry. His supporters include Gemini co-founders Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, as well as the Commonwealth Unity Fund PAC.

Meanwhile, Warren has been critical of Deaton’s crypto allies. She argues that wealthy investors like the Winklevoss twins oppose her due to her strong stance on regulating the industry.

Read more: 11 Cryptos To Add To Your Portfolio Before Altcoin Season

Despite Deaton’s crypto backing, Polymarket bettors expect Warren to win a third term. The prediction market gives Warren, the Democratic candidate, a 97% chance of victory, compared to 3% for Deaton.