Cardano has introduced Node 10.11, marking a major leap in the network’s journey toward decentralized governance.

On November 1, Intersect MBO, a Cardano-led member organization, launched Node 10.11 as the first mainnet release to support the Chang #2 inter-era hard fork. This upgrade transitions the network from its initial technical bootstrapping phase into a fully on-chain governance model.

Cardano’s Governance Evolution Continues with Chang #2

Node 10.11 includes features designed to empower governance within the Cardano ecosystem. Stake Pool Operators (SPOs) can now delegate their votes to preset options, and Delegated Representatives (DReps) gain an auto-abstain feature. The update also enhances Cardano’s ledger, command-line interface (CLI), API, and networking code, creating a more robust foundation for governance and user interaction.

Intersect highlights the Chang 2 upgrade as the completion of Cardano’s move to fully on-chain governance, an evolution from the initial bootstrap model introduced in the first Chang upgrade. This shift allows ADA holders—who since the Chang 1 update on September 1, have been able to delegate governance responsibilities to DReps or represent themselves—to play a more active role in the network’s decision-making processes.

Read more: Cardano (ADA) Price Prediction 2024/2025/2030

Under the new Chang 2 framework, ADA holders must delegate to a DRep to withdraw staking rewards, although rewards will continue to accrue regardless of delegation status. Withdrawals will be possible only after delegating to a DRep or selecting the auto-abstain or no-confidence options. This would encourage active participation in Cardano’s governance structure as it moves closer to its decentralized vision.

“Following a successful Chang #2 hard fork, decisions on the Cardano blockchain will be shaped and voted on via fully decentralized governance, as detailed in CIP-1694,” Intersect stated.

Meanwhile, as Cardano enters this new phase, its founder, Charles Hoskinson, has engaged the community in a unique way. Following some recent public criticism, Hoskinson launched a poll on X (formerly Twitter) asking, “Is Charles Hoskinson a cancer for Cardano?”

As of now, the vote is nearly split, with the “no” responses holding a narrow majority at 51% to 49%. However, the poll has sparked diverse reactions across the community. Some prominent ADA supporters have defended Hoskinson and suggested the poll results might be influenced by bots or external factors.

Read more: Who Is Charles Hoskinson, the Founder of Cardano?

Indeed, with six days remaining, the poll reflects the community’s mixed perspectives on Hoskinson’s role and influence within Cardano.