President Biden returns to California to tap into the Democratic-dominated state's political ATM, following a successful fundraising swing by former President Trump. With less than five months until the November election, Biden, along with former President Obama, will team up with Hollywood stars George Clooney and Julia Roberts for a star-studded fundraiser expected to raise millions.
California has proven to be a lucrative fundraising hub for national politicians, with both Biden and Trump collecting more money from the state than any other. The gala in downtown Los Angeles featured ticket prices ranging from $250 to half a million dollars for special access, photos with Biden and Obama, and invitations to an after-party.
Trump's recent fundraising efforts in California and Las Vegas brought in approximately $27.5 million, with an additional $6 million raised for outside groups supporting his potential 2024 election rematch with Biden. The former president has been working to close the fundraising gap with Biden, with his campaign and the Republican National Committee raising a record $141 million in May.
While Trump's fundraising in California was supported by top GOP donors, Biden's event was orchestrated by the Democratic Hollywood machine. Despite not having the same Hollywood connections as previous Democratic presidents, Biden's presence still draws significant support.
The entertainment industry has historically leaned Democratic, and Biden has enlisted the help of stars like Robert De Niro and Mark Hamill for his campaign. Meanwhile, Trump has criticized Biden for attending the Hollywood fundraiser instead of a peace conference on Ukraine, with Vice President Kamala Harris representing the U.S. at the talks.
Both candidates are actively engaging in fundraising efforts and leveraging their respective networks to secure support as the election approaches.
