Trump guilty verdict fires up Republican donors, who pledge millions
SUMMARY
Major Republican donors rallied behind Donald Trump after his conviction for falsifying business records in New York. Despite the charges, donors see the case as political persecution. Billionaire Miriam Adelson, hotelier Robert Bigelow, and others pledged millions to support Trump's campaign. Bigelow, already a major supporter, promised an additional $5 million. Tech investor Shaun Maguire and former ambassador Don Tapia also increased their contributions, reflecting their belief in Trump's innocence. This financial backing, driven by favorable polls and claims of a biased justice system, ensures Trump will have significant resources for his 2024 presidential run.
STORY
Major Republican Donors Rally Behind Trump Following Conviction
In a show of significant financial support, major Republican donors have rallied behind former President Donald Trump following his conviction for falsifying business records in New York. This conviction, stemming from charges brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, has not deterred Trump's supporters, who view the case as political persecution aimed at weakening his 2024 presidential campaign.
Key Donors Step Up Contributions
- Miriam Adelson: The casino billionaire, a longtime supporter of Trump, has pledged millions to bolster his campaign efforts.
- Robert Bigelow: A prominent Trump backer who has already donated over $9 million, Bigelow announced an additional $5 million contribution. He described the legal proceedings against Trump as a "disgrace."
- Shaun Maguire: The Silicon Valley tech investor, who switched his support to Trump after the Biden administration's chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal, donated $300,000, citing a belief that the justice system is being weaponized against Trump.
- Don Tapia: Former ambassador to Jamaica, Tapia and his network plan to increase their donations from $250,000 to over $1 million. He publicly protested the verdict by flying an American flag upside down outside his Arizona home.
Widespread Donor Support
Despite the conviction, a cross-section of donors from Wall Street, tech, and the oil sector remains firmly behind Trump. Oil businessman Dan Eberhart noted an uptick in donor calls and contributions, driven by favorable polls showing Trump ahead in some battleground states.
Fundraising Momentum
Trump's recent fundraising efforts have been robust, with high-end events across the country and upcoming fundraisers in California. Former ambassador George Glass noted that fundraising events are exceeding expectations, with donors feeling that legal proceedings against Trump are unfair.
