SAN FRANCISCO — Former President Donald Trump is set to embark on a fundraising tour through California this week, marking his first such effort since his conviction on 34 charges in a hush money trial. This tour will take him to high-profile fundraisers in San Francisco, Beverly Hills, and Newport Beach, spotlighting his recent legal troubles and placing additional pressure on California’s Republican candidates.
Key Points of Trump’s California Visit
- Fundraising Stops: Trump will start his tour at the home of venture capitalist David Sacks in San Francisco, targeting wealthy tech investors. Subsequent stops include fundraisers in Beverly Hills and Newport Beach.
- California Republicans’ Dilemma: The tour puts California Republicans, especially those in vulnerable seats, in a precarious position. Many have remained silent following Trump’s conviction, while others have made cautious statements.
- Notable Reactions:
- Ken Calvert and Scott Baugh: Both criticized the prosecutions as partisan.
- Mike Garcia, Michelle Steel, and David Valadao: These representatives have largely avoided commenting on the verdicts.
- John Duarte: Broke his silence, expressing disappointment with the prosecution in a local TV interview.
Political Calculus for GOP Candidates
The GOP candidates face a difficult balance:
- Support Trump: Risks alienating swing voters crucial for winning tight races.
- Stay Silent: Could draw ire from Trump and his supporters, akin to the backlash faced by former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan after he urged respect for the verdict.
Despite the complexities, several candidates, including Garcia and Duarte, have endorsed Trump for reelection. Michelle Steel also signed on as a delegate for Trump in the presidential primary.
Trump’s Understanding of Political Stakes
Former California GOP executive director Jon Fleischman suggests that Trump recognizes the strategic needs of individual House races. There is a belief that Trump won’t penalize candidates for keeping a low profile to secure their seats, understanding the broader goal of maintaining control of the House.
Financial Backing from Wealthy Donors
Trump’s convictions have galvanized some of the nation’s wealthiest individuals to support his campaign:
- Sequoia Capital Partners: Shaun Maguire donated $300,000, emphasizing the timing was deliberate.
- Doug Leone: Despite renouncing Trump post-Jan. 6, has announced renewed support for his reelection bid.
Harmeet Dhillon, the RNC’s national committeewoman for California, highlighted that Trump’s positions on deregulation and technology resonate with Silicon Valley elites, driving their financial backing despite personal reservations.
Implications for GOP and Trump’s Campaign
Trump’s fundraising tour underscores the complex dynamics within the Republican Party as it navigates the upcoming election season. California Republicans must carefully strategize their support to balance their electoral viability with party loyalty, while Trump’s ability to attract substantial financial backing underscores his enduring influence within the GOP.
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