President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration has sparked unprecedented demand from donors, leaving some seven-figure donors without VIP access to key events due to limited capacity.
According to a New York Times report, the inaugural committee has raised more than $170 million so far, a record-breaking figure that surpasses his 2017 inauguration haul of $107 million.
Private events such as the exclusive “candlelight dinner” on January 19, featuring Trump and his wife Melania, have become highly sought after, with some donors offering as much as $1 million despite receiving no guarantees of access. The dinner is considered the highlight of a series of events beginning on January 17.
Corporate America and wealthy individuals have shown a growing eagerness to align with Trump’s administration. Trump had also recently said after being elected that he is being embraced by business executives, a sharp contrast to his first presidential win eight years ago.
“In the first term, everybody was fighting. In this term, everybody wants to be my friend,” he had said.
“Space is limited,” read marketing materials sent to prospective contributors, with the committee halting ticket sales earlier than expected due to extraordinary demand.
Free public tickets for the January 20 swearing-in ceremony remain available through members of Congres. However, the rush for VIP packages underscores the desire for exclusive access among the wealthy and well-connected.
Funds raised are expected to approach $200 million, with leftover money likely allocated to a Trump presidential library fund.
Trump’s allies have already raised over $250 million since Election Day for political projects.
