Former President Donald Trump's endorsement of car dealership owner Bernie Moreno for Ohio’s Senate seat has led to a surge in spending at Trump's businesses by Republican candidates and political groups. Moreno's campaign alone spent approximately $96,000 at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort, making him one of the top political spenders at the Florida club.
Analysis of federal campaign finance data reveals that Republican candidates and groups are on track to spend more on Trump's businesses this year than in any year since 2016. Trump himself has been the biggest spender, directing over $28 million in campaign donations to his businesses over the last decade.
Many Republicans, including new politicians endorsed by Trump, have followed suit in spending millions at Trump's properties. This spending is seen as an attempt to gain favor with the former president and signal loyalty to GOP voters.
Notable candidates who have spent significant amounts at Trump properties include Herschel Walker, a former Georgia Senate candidate, and Kari Lake, an Arizona Senate hopeful. Despite their lack of past electoral experience or success, these candidates have garnered Trump's endorsement and support.
The trend of Republican candidates funneling campaign funds into Trump's businesses raises questions about the intersection of politics and personal profit. Critics argue that this practice blurs the lines between political fundraising and enriching private interests.
As the 2022 midterm elections approach, the influence of Trump's endorsements and the financial ties between Republican candidates and his businesses are likely to remain a topic of scrutiny and debate within the party and among voters.
