Binance spent $860,000 on lobbying campaign for CZ's pardon — Politico

The Binance cryptocurrency exchange spent $860,000 on a lobbying campaign aimed at securing a pardon for its founder, Changpeng Zhao (CZ), from US President Donald Trump. According to reports, $450,000 of this amount went to Checkmate Government Relations, a company that supports Trump. In addition, $290,000 went to former SEC lawyer Theresa Goody Gillen.

Source Incrypted

In 2024, a US court sentenced CZ to four months in prison for violating anti-money laundering laws. President Trump justified his actions by saying that the businessman had been unfairly persecuted by the previous administration. In November 2023, numerous charges were brought against Binance and CZ, including organizing illegal business.

Binance's lobbying expenses reflect its desire to restore its reputation and reduce legal sanctions. The company has noted an increase in its political activity under the new administration, underscoring the importance of business-political engagement in the US.