XRP in U.S. Crypto Reserve Was Not Trump’s Idea: Here’s The Truth

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The post XRP in U.S. Crypto Reserve Was Not Trump’s Idea: Here’s The Truth appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

New politico reports suggest that XRP’s inclusion in US President Donald Trump’s proposed Crypto stockpile may not have been his idea. According to emerging sources, lobbyist Brian Ballard allegedly influenced Trump behind the scenes to include XRP in the plan.

Was Trump Misled About XRP?

In January 2025, President Trump signed an executive order forming the Presidential Working Group on Digital Asset Markets. On March 2, he announced via Truth Social that XRP, Solana, Cardano, Ethereum, and Bitcoin would be part of the official US Crypto Strategic Reserve.

Days later, on March 6, Trump issued another executive order establishing a strategic Bitcoin reserve and a US Digital Asset Stockpile for select altcoins. However, reports now claim XRP wasn’t originally part of Trump’s plan and was added due to Ballard’s lobbying efforts.

Ripple Lobbying Scandal: What’s the Buzz?

Political insiders allege that Brian Ballard, a well-known lobbyist, used his close ties with Ripple to influence the decision. Documents reveal Ballard received at least $60,000 from Ripple in 2024. The move has sparked widespread speculation in both political and crypto circles.

While the White House has yet to comment, sources suggest Trump has cut ties with Ballard after realizing he was misled.

Will XRP Be Dropped from the Strategic Reserve?

Experts believe that while Trump is reportedly unhappy about the situation, he’s unlikely to remove XRP immediately. The president maintains strong ties with Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse, who was a major donor to Trump’s campaign and inauguration fund.