Biden hopes to raise money from Hollywood stars after Trump raises a lot in blue state.
President Biden recently returned to California, following a profitable three-day visit by his predecessor, former President Trump. With less than five months left until the November election, late-night TV host Jimmy Kimmel is set to interview Biden and former President Obama at a star-studded fundraiser in Los Angeles. The event, expected to attract Hollywood heavyweights George Clooney and Julia Roberts, is anticipated to raise millions of dollars for the Democratic cause.
California has become a key destination for national politicians looking to boost their campaign finances. According to the Federal Election Commission, both Biden and Trump have received more financial support from California than any other state in this election cycle.
The upcoming gala at the Peacock Theater will offer tickets ranging from $250 for general admission to half a million dollars for exclusive access, photo opportunities with Biden and Obama, and invites to a post-event party. This fundraiser comes on the heels of Trump’s recent visit to the state, where his campaign reported an additional $6 million raised for supportive groups backing his 2024 election campaign against Biden.
In a bid to close the fundraising gap with Biden, Trump’s campaign and the Republican National Committee (RNC) saw record-breaking donations in April, surpassing the contributions received by Biden’s campaign and the Democratic National Committee. The successful outcome of Trump’s recent criminal trial further boosted fundraising efforts, culminating in an impressive $141 million raised in May.
While Trump’s fundraising in California largely drew support from high-profile GOP donors like tech industry investors and hedge fund magnates, Biden’s event in Los Angeles will be orchestrated by prominent figures in the Democratic entertainment industry. Hollywood has traditionally leaned towards supporting Democratic candidates, with notable celebrities like Robert De Niro and Mark Hamill actively endorsing Biden’s campaign.
Since taking office, President Biden has gradually built rapport with Hollywood influencers, recovering from the setbacks caused by labor union strikes that delayed fundraising efforts in the entertainment sector. Noteworthy events hosted by Hollywood luminaries like Steven Spielberg, Rob Reiner, and Jeffrey Katzenberg have significantly fueled Biden’s campaign treasury.
As the election draws nearer, both presidential candidates are actively seeking endorsement from well-known personalities to bolster their campaigns. Trump’s recent fundraising activities in California have been contrasted with Biden’s star-studded events, with both camps striving to attract financial support and public attention.
While Trump continues to engage with his base of supporters across different states, Biden’s focus on fundraising in California has received criticism from his opponents. The decision to prioritize a high-profile fundraiser over attending an international peace conference has raised eyebrows, with Vice President Kamala Harris representing the U.S. at the peace talks in Switzerland.
Overall, the race for campaign financing and celebrity endorsements reflects the intense competition between Biden and Trump as they gear up for the 2024 election rematch. With California playing a central role in shaping the candidates’ fundraising strategies, the influence of Hollywood celebrities and high-profile donors will continue to impact the political landscape in the months leading up to the election.
