Summary
Vice President Kamala Harris hosted a high-profile fundraiser in Los Angeles on September 29, 2024, which attracted numerous celebrities and raised over $28 million for her campaign. The event took place at the JW Marriott and featured performances from stars like Alanis Morissette and Halle Bailey, as well as appearances by prominent figures such as Demi Lovato and Stevie Wonder. Despite the significant financial success of the event, it drew criticism due to its timing, coinciding with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which had caused widespread devastation in the southeastern United States.
The Los Angeles fundraiser marked Harris’ first major campaign event in the city since becoming the Democratic nominee. Attendees included a mix of Hollywood elites and high-dollar donors, with ticket prices ranging from $500 to nearly $1 million. While Harris expressed her gratitude for the support from California, the juxtaposition of her glamorous fundraising efforts against the backdrop of a humanitarian crisis sparked backlash from various media figures and political opponents. Critics, including Megyn Kelly, highlighted the perceived insensitivity of prioritizing a lavish event over addressing the urgent needs of hurricane victims. In response to the growing criticism, Harris cut short her fundraising activities to return to Washington, D.C., as the federal government faced scrutiny over its disaster relief efforts.
Fundraising Context
Harris’ campaign has relied heavily on fundraising from Hollywood and wealthy donors, particularly following President Biden’s withdrawal from the race and subsequent endorsement of her candidacy. The event in Los Angeles was part of a broader strategy that has seen her campaign raising substantial funds, reportedly over $361 million in August alone. This approach has raised questions about her connection to average Americans, especially as inflation and economic challenges continue to affect many families.
Political Implications
The timing and nature of the fundraiser have significant implications for Harris’ campaign as she navigates a tight race against former President Donald Trump. Critics argue that her focus on celebrity endorsements and fundraising could alienate voters who are more concerned with pressing issues like the economy and disaster recovery. As Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, prepare for the upcoming election, the balance between appealing to high-profile supporters and addressing the needs of ordinary Americans will be crucial in shaping their campaign narrative.
Trump is holding more campaign events than Harris
Oct. 10 / Abc News / Analyzes the campaign dynamics between Harris and Trump, focusing on event frequency. The data-driven approach offers valuable insights into campaign strategy, making it a unique contribution to the discussion. “ Stop me if you've heard this one before : Democrats are second-guessing their presidential nominee's campaign strategy. This time, Democrats are reportedly...
Biden and Harris visiting Hurricane Helene-ravaged Southeast - ABC News
Oct. 2 / Google News / Offers a broader context of Biden and Harris’ response to Hurricane Helene, showcasing their efforts to address the disaster. This article provides essential background to understand the political implications. “ Biden and Harris visiting Hurricane Helene-ravaged Southeast ABC NewsAhead of Visit, Biden Orders 1,000 Troops to Region Gutted by Helene The New York...
Hurricane relief funds stable for now, officials say
Oct. 1 / Roll Call / Explores the federal response to Hurricane Helene, providing necessary context for understanding the political landscape. It discusses FEMA's status and the implications for recovery efforts, enriching the topic. “ Fears of an immediate cash crunch at the Federal Emergency Management Agency that could necessitate congressional action before the November elections...
Kamala Harris Hits L.A. for Star-Studded Fundraiser: “It’s Good to Be Home”
Sep. 30 / The Hollywood Reporter / Examines Harris' fundraiser with a focus on her campaign rhetoric and celebrity endorsements. The piece captures the event's atmosphere while critiquing the implications for her connection with average voters. “ ‘ presidential campaign rolled into Los Angeles on Sunday afternoon, marking her first major fundraiser in the city and bringing along a starry group of...
Oct. 5 / Dailycaller / Calls attention to the disconnect between Harris’ fundraising efforts and the ongoing humanitarian crisis. It effectively highlights criticisms from various media figures, providing a balanced perspective. “ Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign appears to have set their focus on fundraising and celebrity sit-downs, raking in millions through the help of...
Hollywood Turns Out In Force For Kamala Harris’ L.A. Fundraiser
Sep. 29 / Deadline / Details the star-studded nature of Harris' fundraiser, showcasing the significant financial success. The vivid descriptions of the event's atmosphere and celebrity attendance make it engaging and informative. “ Hollywood figures made a big showing this afternoon as Vice President Kamala Harris was to make her first appearance at a Los Angeles fundraiser since...
HART: Faux Folksy Tim Couldn’t Waltz Through VP Debate
Oct. 2 / Dailycaller / Utilizes satire to critique the perceived disconnect between Harris' fundraising and pressing national issues. While humorous, it effectively underscores serious concerns about leadership and priorities. “ Note: This is a satirical piece. Days before the big Vice-Presidential debate, Hurricane Helene hit the South. Joe Biden and Kamala were criticized for their...
Oct. 1 / Brietbart / Highlights Megyn Kelly's sharp criticism of Harris for prioritizing a fundraiser over disaster response. The focus on the emotional fallout from Hurricane Helene adds a compelling layer to the narrative. “ The fallout from Kamala Harris’ botched response to Hurricane Helene is growing, with Megyn Kelly being the latest media figure to blast the vice president...
Sep. 30 / Brietbart / Presents a critical view of Harris’ Hollywood connections amid a crisis. It emphasizes the negative optics of her attendance at a fundraiser, framing it within the larger narrative of her campaign strategy. “ Vice President Kamala Harris returned to her natural habitat over the weekend — Hollywood, where she partied with celebrities and studio executives as...