Did Tucker Carlson and Nayib Bukele discuss cryptocurrency during their interview
In the realm of media interviews, Tucker Carlson’s discussions are typically enlightening rather than contentious, featuring guests carefully selected to align with his perspective. Known as one of the most polarizing right-wing commentators globally, Carlson has recently engaged in cordial conversations with prominent autocrats such as Russia’s Vladimir Putin and Hungary’s Viktor Orban. Adding to this list now is El Salvador’s Nayib Bukele.
Bukele gained recognition in the cryptocurrency community for making Bitcoin legal tender in his Central American nation in September 2021. Despite this bold move, the actual adoption of BTC among Salvadorans remains low, with a mere 12% engaging in transactions last year. The utilization of Bitcoin for remittances is even lower at 1%. Additionally, Bukele’s ambitious project of “Bitcoin City” near a volcano has yet to materialize, despite his grand announcements during the 2021 bull market.
One positive outcome of Bukele’s Bitcoin venture is the significant increase in El Salvador’s BTC reserves. The country currently holds 5,777 BTC valued at $379.9 million, with a paper profit of $69 million, according to NayibTracker.com.
Bitcoin enthusiasts were initially captivated by Bukele’s large-scale BTC purchases reminiscent of Michael Saylor. However, these announcements decreased as the market experienced a drastic drop from $69,000 to $20,000 by July 2022. Subsequently, Bukele shifted to a more subtle strategy of acquiring one Bitcoin daily, as evidenced by wallet address records.
During the Tucker Carlson interview with Bukele, Bitcoin was notably absent from the conversation. Instead, the discussion focused on topics like “Bukele’s mission to save El Salvador,” “Bukele’s three-point economic plan,” and “Is Western civilization dying?”
While Bukele highlighted the reduced homicide rate in El Salvador and the success of his anti-crime policies, independent observers have raised concerns about underreported violent deaths and allegations of human rights abuses in prisons. Despite Carlson’s praise for Bukele’s popularity and leadership, critics point to constitutional controversies and concerns about his authoritarian tendencies.
In conclusion, Bukele’s interview with Carlson lacked depth and critical questioning, emphasizing praise for his leadership. However, a broader perspective reveals complexities in Bukele’s governance and the challenges faced by ordinary Salvadorans. Just as in the volatile world of cryptocurrency, it is essential to consider the bigger picture beyond Bitcoin in evaluating Bukele’s leadership.
