The Trump campaign has utilized GoFundMe to raise over $14 million for the survivors of an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump in July and for victims of Hurricane Helene. This unconventional approach to fundraising has garnered attention due to its departure from traditional emergency relief avenues.
Legal experts have confirmed that these fundraisers do not violate campaign finance laws, and the campaign is not permitted to retain any of the proceeds for political purposes. The majority of the funds raised have already been distributed to the beneficiaries.
Typically, political candidates contribute campaign funds to IRS-approved nonprofits during natural disasters. However, the Trump campaign's decision to use a crowdfunding platform like GoFundMe is unprecedented in the realm of presidential campaigns.
The funds raised have come from a mix of deep-pocketed donors, everyday supporters, and prominent figures. Notable contributions include $100,000 donations from individuals like Bill Ackman and Dana White, as well as support from organizations like The Heritage Foundation.
GoFundMe collects a transaction fee for each donation to cover processing charges. The platform has been working closely with the fundraiser organizer to ensure the safe distribution of donations.
While some experts have raised concerns about the lack of transparency associated with crowdfunding, others have noted that this approach aligns with the Trump campaign's history of challenging institutional norms.
Despite the unconventional nature of this fundraising effort, the campaign has emphasized that all funds raised will directly benefit the intended recipients. The disbursements have already made a significant impact on the survivors of the assassination attempt and the communities affected by Hurricane Helene.
Overall, the Trump campaign's use of GoFundMe for charitable purposes has sparked a broader conversation about the intersection of campaigning and philanthropy, highlighting the complexities and challenges inherent in such endeavors.
