Michael Saylor Says Bitcoin Advocacy Is Protected Free Speech in US

Strategy Executive Chairman Michael Saylor has defended Americans’ right to publicly discuss and promote Bitcoin, arguing that such advocacy is protected speech and does not require a financial license.

Saylor said people in the United States are free to discuss Bitcoin, advocate for its adoption, or publicly recommend owning BTC without obtaining regulatory approval. His comments come as U.S. lawmakers continue debating legislation aimed at establishing clearer rules for the cryptocurrency industry.

“In America, you don’t need a license to discuss Bitcoin, advocate for it, or publicly recommend owning it,” Saylor said.

The Strategy chairman also described Bitcoin as a commodity rather than a security. However, he emphasized that existing laws still prohibit fraudulent activity and market manipulation, drawing a distinction between legitimate Bitcoin advocacy and illegal conduct.

Saylor’s remarks arrive ahead of a key September 15 procedural vote on the CLARITY Act. The legislation seeks to clarify the responsibilities of federal regulators overseeing digital assets and establish a broader framework for the U.S. crypto market.

The National Sheriffs’ Association recently changed its position on the CLARITY Act from opposition to neutral after previously expressing concerns about illicit finance enforcement. Senator Cynthia Lummis welcomed the shift and has urged lawmakers to advance the legislation, arguing that it could strengthen law enforcement tools for combating illegal crypto activity.

The September 15 vote would only advance Senate consideration of the CLARITY Act and would not constitute final passage.

Meanwhile, Saylor’s comments follow Strategy’s return to Bitcoin buying after an approximately 10-week pause. The company recently purchased 4,603 BTC for roughly $369.7 million at an average price of $80,318 per coin. The acquisition increased Strategy’s total Bitcoin holdings to 845,050 BTC.

Despite the renewed Bitcoin purchases, Strategy shares remain under pressure. MSTR stock fell about 4.2% to $138.74 as Bitcoin experienced fresh volatility following the latest U.S. employment report.

Strategy shares are also down approximately 56% over the past 12 months, although Saylor continues to champion Bitcoin publicly and maintain the company’s BTC-focused treasury strategy.