Ex-President's Lavish Fundraisers Continue Amid Term Limits
Former President Donald Trump is organising two high-dollar fundraising events for his super PAC next year, with seats costing an astonishing $1 million each, according to a recent report. This ambitious fundraising drive is notable as Trump is constitutionally barred from running for president again, raising questions about the ultimate purpose of these vast financial reserves.
Details of the Exclusive Events
The New York Times, which obtained copies of the invitations, revealed that Trump will host "candlelight dinners" at two of his signature properties. The first is scheduled for January 31 at Trump National Golf Club near Washington, D.C., followed by a second event on February 27 at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida.
All proceeds from these extravagant gatherings will flow to MAGA Inc., the primary political action committee dedicated to advancing Trump's political movement. Super PACs are typically used by politicians to raise funds for their own electoral campaigns, making Trump's continued aggressive fundraising unusual given his term-limited status.
The Mystery of the Massive War Chest
Federal Election Commission data reveals the staggering scale of MAGA Inc.'s financial operations. The organisation has raised nearly $177 million this year but has spent only a fraction—approximately $4.6 million. This includes roughly $60,000 spent on events held at Trump's own properties.
Despite this minimal expenditure, the super PAC maintains an enormous $196.1 million in cash reserves. This financial power vastly overshadows similar organisations from previous administrations. For instance, Priorities USA, which supported former President Barack Obama after his re-election, held just $3.4 million in June 2013—less than 2% of MAGA Inc.'s current war chest.
While Trump has occasionally floated the possibility of an unconstitutional third-term run in 2028, he is explicitly prohibited from doing so by the 22nd Amendment to the US Constitution. This legal barrier makes the destination of these funds particularly intriguing to political observers.
Funding Legacy Projects and Legal Settlements
Beyond super PAC fundraising, Trump has directed other financial streams toward personal legacy projects. Tax documents show the foundation behind his presidential library plans to raise nearly a billion dollars over the next two years to construct the facility in downtown Miami.
Funds from Trump's legal settlements—including $16 million from Paramount and $15 million from ABC—are being directed toward this library project. Additionally, Trump is pursuing a $300 million golden ballroom at the White House, for which he demolished the East Wing.
He recently hosted a lavish White House fundraiser for this project, attracting donors from major corporations including Lockheed Martin, Microsoft, Meta, Google, Amazon, and Palantir Technologies.
The Independent has reached out to MAGA Inc. for comment regarding their substantial financial reserves and future spending plans.
