Biden raises record $28 Million at star-studded LA fundraiser for reelection campaign

Hollywood A-listers George Clooney and Julia Roberts join Biden and Obama in the largest Democratic fundraiser ever.

President Joe Biden's reelection campaign received a significant boost, raising over $28 million at a downtown Los Angeles fundraiser on Saturday. 

The star-studded event, held at the Peacock Theater, featured high-profile guests including George Clooney, Julia Roberts, and former President Barack Obama.

Jimmy Kimmel moderated a discussion between Biden and Obama, covering crucial topics such as abortion and the Supreme Court. 

Biden emphasized the potential impact of a Donald Trump reelection, stating, “The next president is likely to have two new Supreme Court nominees. The idea that if he’s reelected he’s going to appoint two more flying flags upside down.”

Clooney and Roberts kicked off the event, with Clooney announcing it as “the largest Democratic fundraiser ever.” 

The gathering also included celebrities like Barbra Streisand, who introduced First Lady Jill Biden. 

“I have to say it’s humbling to have this group of incredible artists and advocates stand beside us in this election,” the First Lady remarked.

Ticket prices ranged from $250 to $500,000 for a package that included a photo with the two presidents and access to the after-party. 

Other notable figures on stage were Jason Bateman, Kathryn Hahn, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and Jack Black. 

Jeffrey Katzenberg, a co-chair of the Biden campaign, attended along with CAA leaders Richard Lovett and Bryan Lourd.

Hunter Biden, recently convicted in federal court in Delaware for lying on a gun ownership form, was also present, according to a pool report. 

The event drew criticism from the California Republican Party. Chair Jessica Millan Patterson commented, “Nothing says to struggling Americans, ‘I understand what you’re going through and am ready to help,’ like spending a night schmoozing with the ultra-relatable George Clooney, Julia Roberts, and other Hollywood celebrities.”

Pro-Palestinian protesters were seen outside the venue, adding another layer of complexity to the event. 

This fundraiser follows a similar one held in March at Radio City Music Hall in New York, which raised $26 million.

Biden, maintaining a fundraising edge over Trump for much of the campaign, arrived in Los Angeles early on Saturday after attending the G7 Summit in Italy and meeting with Pope Francis.