President Joe Biden and former President Barack Obama headlined a star-studded fundraiser in Los Angeles, raising a historic $28 million to support Biden's reelection campaign.
- Jun 16, 2024
AceShowbiz - President Joe Biden and former President Barack Obama shared the stage at the Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday, raising a record-breaking $28 million in a glittering fundraiser that highlighted Hollywood stars and Democratic heavyweights.
Late-night television host Jimmy Kimmel, who moderated a discussion between Biden and Obama, opened the event with a humorous video contrasting Biden's record with that of his predecessor and current Republican challenger, Donald Trump. The audience erupted in cheers as Kimmel introduced George Clooney and Julia Roberts, among other celebrities in attendance.
Biden, in a departure from his usual reserved tone on the Supreme Court, denounced it as "out of kilter" and warned that if Trump were reelected, "he is likely to have two new Supreme Court nominees."
Obama emphasized the importance of elections and the impact of the Biden administration's policies. "The power of the Supreme Court is determined by elections," he said. "Hopefully, we have learned our lesson."
The fundraiser, billed as the largest Democratic fundraising event in history, surpassed the $26 million raised at a previous event in New York City in March. Top-ticket packages sold for $500,000 each, providing access to prime seats, photo opportunities with both presidents, and a VIP after-party.
Other celebrities who graced the stage included Jason Bateman, Kathryn Hahn, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and Jack Black. Barbra Streisand, known for her support of Democratic candidates, introduced First Lady Jill Biden.
"This Saturday, we are going to see an unprecedented and record-setting turnout from the media and entertainment world," said media mogul Jeffrey Katzenberg, a Biden campaign co-chair. "The enthusiasm and commitment for Biden-Harris couldn't be stronger."
While Biden and Trump remain in a statistical dead heat in national polls, Biden holds an advantage in fundraising. The Biden campaign has also been aided by the high-profile support of Hollywood celebrities, a traditional source of financial backing for Democratic presidential campaigns.
Despite the star-studded nature of the event, pro-Palestinian protesters gathered outside the venue, condemning Biden's support for Israel.
The fundraiser came at a pivotal moment in the 2024 presidential race, as polls show a close contest and voters express growing anxiety about domestic economic issues and global conflicts.
