Following former President Trump’s profitable visit to California, President Biden has returned to the state to leverage its Democratic-leaning financial support base. With the November election approaching, Biden and former President Obama, alongside Hollywood stars like George Clooney and Julia Roberts, participated in a high-profile fundraiser, which Biden’s campaign touts as record-breaking, raising over $28 million.
This significant amount surpasses a previous record set at a Biden, Obama, and Clinton event in New York City’s Radio City Music Hall, which collected $26 million. However, Trump’s fundraiser at John Paulson’s Florida home brought in over $50 million, the most ever raised at a single event, showcasing his strong fundraising capabilities.
California remains a crucial fundraising hub for both parties. Biden and Trump have raised more money in California this election cycle than in any other state. Tickets for Biden’s latest fundraiser ranged from $250 to $500,000, indicating the high stakes and deep pockets involved in these events.
Biden Raises Record $28 Million in Hollywood Fundraiser
Trump’s recent California trip resulted in roughly $27.5 million from three events, plus $6 million for support groups. His campaign has focused on closing the fundraising gap with Biden, highlighted by a remarkable $141 million raised in May, driven partly by reactions to Trump’s legal troubles, which saw his supporters rally financially in significant numbers.
The entertainment industry’s long-standing support for Democratic candidates is evident in Biden’s fundraising efforts. Despite not having as deep connections as previous Democratic presidents, Biden continues to draw significant backing from Hollywood, including from influential figures like Steven Spielberg and Jeffrey Katzenberg.
As both campaigns ramp up efforts, Trump targets everyday Americans while criticizing Biden’s association with Hollywood elites. This criticism extended to Biden skipping a Ukraine peace conference in Switzerland, with Vice President Harris attending in his place, further highlighting the contrasting campaign strategies and priorities of the two candidates.
