President Joe Biden has transitioned from addressing Russia's challenge to Western unity at the Group of Seven summit to attending a high-profile fundraiser in Hollywood. The event, featuring celebrities like George Clooney and Julia Roberts, aims to raise significant funds for Biden's reelection campaign.
The fundraiser, set in Los Angeles, includes former President Barack Obama alongside headliners Clooney and Roberts. Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel will conduct interviews on stage, with the event being described as a crucial moment in the election cycle.
Biden's engagement with entertainment industry luminaries underscores the growing support from this sector for his campaign. However, his participation in the fundraiser means missing a summit in Switzerland focused on resolving Russia's war in Ukraine, highlighting the balancing act between presidential duties and reelection efforts.
Notably, Biden's previous fundraiser in New York raised $26 million, with the campaign anticipating a substantial outcome from the Hollywood event. In contrast, former President Donald Trump has also been successful in fundraising, surpassing Biden's numbers in recent events.
While Biden attends the Hollywood fundraiser, Vice President Kamala Harris is representing the U.S. at the Ukraine summit in Switzerland. This decision has drawn mixed reactions, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressing a preference for Biden's personal presence.
Additionally, Biden's fundraiser is expected to face protests from pro-Palestinian activists critical of the administration's stance on Israel's conflict with Hamas. Such demonstrations have become a common occurrence during Biden's recent public appearances.
Overall, the juxtaposition of fundraising efforts with international diplomatic engagements underscores the complex nature of presidential responsibilities during an election year.
