Former President Donald Trump is actively courting potential megadonors for his 2024 presidential campaign, employing personal calls, motorcade rides, and exclusive dinners at Mar-a-Lago, according to sources familiar with the efforts. Notable figures like casino magnate Steve Wynn, aerospace mogul Robert Bigelow, and Las Vegas businessman Don Ahern have been part of Trump’s recent outreach, with financial commitments reportedly secured from many of these high-dollar donors.
Despite initial hesitations from some Republican donors after the 2020 election and the events of January 6, 2021, Trump has managed to regain support, particularly from those who had previously backed Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. Bigelow, a major financial supporter of DeSantis, has shifted allegiance to Trump, highlighting the fluid dynamics within the GOP donor landscape.
The super PAC supporting Trump, MAGA, Inc., claims a significant boost in fundraising, reporting over $46 million raised in the second half of 2023. This surge contrasts sharply with the $13 million raised in the first half of the same year, indicating a renewed financial backing for Trump’s political endeavors.
Meanwhile, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, Trump’s primary rival for the GOP nomination, is actively engaged in a major fundraising push. Despite Trump campaign managers asserting that Haley lacks a viable path to the nomination, she has garnered support from influential donors associated with the Koch network.
Conservative groups opposed to Trump are redirecting their efforts to support Republican candidates for the Senate and House. Ken Griffin, CEO of Citadel and a significant donor to Haley, emphasizes his commitment to congressional races while awaiting the determination of the Republican presidential nominee by voters.
Haley’s fundraising efforts have been buoyed by Trump’s recent warning that donors supporting her would be “permanently barred” from his orbit. This threat has stirred Haley’s donors, leading to increased contributions and the sale of campaign merchandise featuring the words “Barred. Permanently.”
Despite Trump’s warnings, Haley remains steadfast in her commitment to the race, recently reaffirming her optimism about closing the gap with Trump before the South Carolina primary. Her ability to resonate with donors and maintain fundraising momentum adds an intriguing dimension to the unfolding dynamics within the Republican Party.
