NEW YORK — Former President Donald Trump’s campaign is using GoFundMe to rally its network of deep-pocketed backers and everyday donors around the survivors of his July assassination attempt and Hurricane Helene’s destruction, showcasing the power of grassroots support in times of crisis.
The two high-profile fundraisers, organized by the Republican nominee’s national finance director, have raised over $14 million. This unconventional approach to emergency relief has drawn attention, but it does not violate campaign finance laws, according to legal experts. In fact, the campaign is not allowed to keep any of the proceeds for its own political ends. A GoFundMe spokesperson confirmed that the majority of the funds raised in Butler, Pennsylvania have already been disbursed to those in need.
The use of a crowdfunding platform by a political campaign is unprecedented. Typically, candidates contribute campaign funds to IRS-approved nonprofits during natural disasters. For example, U.S. Senator Tim Scott’s 2022 campaign donated to the American Red Cross after Hurricane Ian hit South Carolina.
However, the Trump campaign saw an opportunity to directly involve their supporters in providing aid to those affected by the assassination attempt and Hurricane Helene. According to campaign spokesperson Brian Hughes, the motivation behind this decision was “the president wanting to help find a way for his supporters to give as much direct support as they can.” The finance team, with their expertise in managing large accounts, got involved to ensure that every penny raised would go directly to those impacted by the crises.
The response from Trump’s supporters has been overwhelming. Longtime Trump associates, conservative celebrities, and right-wing groups have donated tens of thousands of dollars. Even those in the political arena, such as Republican U.S. Senator Rick Scott, have contributed to the cause. The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, also made a donation to the fundraiser.
GoFundMe, a for-profit company, collects a transaction fee for every donation to cover credit and debit charges. However, their global Trust & Safety team has been closely monitoring the distribution of donations from the Butler, Pennsylvania page to ensure that the funds are being used appropriately. The organizer, Meredith O’Rourke, has provided a verified distribution plan, which is a standard requirement for cases where organizers are withdrawing money on behalf of other recipients.
While some may question the use of a crowdfunding platform for a political campaign, it is important to note that the funds raised are going towards a charitable cause. The Trump campaign is not profiting from this initiative, and the majority of the funds have already been disbursed to those in need. As campaign finance attorney Andrew Herman stated, “There’s no black letter law that says they can’t do this. Should they? Of course not.” However, in times of crisis, it is important to focus on the positive impact that these funds are having on the lives of those affected.
The disbursements from the Butler, Pennsylvania fundraiser have already made a significant difference in the lives of the survivors of the assassination attempt. More payouts will continue to be made as the page remains active. The “vast majority” of the funds have gone to the families of the three people who were shot, and some have also gone towards compensating a local crane rental company for their lost business during the police investigation.
The funds raised for Hurricane Helene victims have been distributed to four nonprofits, including Samaritan’s Purse and Water Mission. These organizations have expressed their gratitude for Trump’s support and have confirmed that the funds will be used to provide aid to those affected by the hurricane.
While some may question the use of crowdfunding for a political campaign, it is important to remember that the ultimate goal is to help those in need. The Trump campaign’s decision to use GoFundMe as a platform to mobilize their supporters towards charitable causes is a testament to the power of grassroots support. As Benjamin Soskis of the Urban Institute’s Center on Nonprofits and Philanthropy stated, “It is a combustible dynamic when you combine campaigning and charitable giving.” However, in this case, the end result is a positive one, with millions of dollars being raised to help those in need.
In conclusion, the Trump campaign’s use of GoFundMe to raise funds for the survivors of the assassination attempt and Hurricane Helene is a unique and unconventional approach to emergency relief. However, it has proven to be successful, with over $14 million raised and the majority of funds already disbursed to those in need. This initiative showcases the power of grassroots
