In a shocking turn of events, Republican Michigan lawmaker Neil Friske was arrested on Thursday morning under dramatic circumstances.
Friske, a representative of the state's 107th House District, allegedly chased an exotic dancer while firing a gun and now faces a felony charge, as the Daily Caller reports.
The legislator's arrest was conducted by Lansing Police after a report surfaced about a male armed with a gun. The lawmaker is currently in custody, charged with a felony-level offense. The sequence of events leading to his arrest involved further disturbing allegations.
Friske is accused of sexually assaulting an exotic dancer affiliated with Deja Vu Showgirls, a known local establishment. Following the alleged assault, he purportedly chased the dancer while discharging a firearm.
The allegations were severe enough to prompt immediate police action. The Lansing Police Department confirmed that Friske’s actions warranted a felony-level charge.
Upon arrival on the scene, police indeed found Friske chasing the woman, prompting his swift arrest. Details remain sparse as authorities delve deeper into the investigation.
Friske’s campaign team quickly issued a statement on Facebook questioning the timing of the arrest. They implied that the arrest coincides suspiciously with the release of absentee ballots.
The statement hinted at political motivations, referencing a recent poll between Friske and his opponent. The campaign suggested that the arrest might be influenced by Friske's political standing.
“This comes a day after an unknown phone number conducted polling on the 107 race between Rep. Friske and our opponent,” the campaign noted.
Deja Vu Showgirls chose not to comment on the incident. The establishment's decision to withhold statements has kept public discourse speculative at best.
As investigations proceed, the lawmaker is scheduled for arraignment on Friday. Legal experts anticipate a tumultuous trial given the severity of the charges. Friske’s campaign has asked for prayers and support amidst this controversy. Officials promised further updates directly from the campaign or from Rep. Friske himself.
Neil Friske's arrest has sent shockwaves through northern Michigan's political landscape. Charged with a felony following allegations of sexual assault and firearm misconduct, his career now hangs in the balance.
The incident has raised questions about the implications of such charges on his political future. As this story develops, citizens and political analysts alike watch closely. Friske's scheduled arraignment on Friday will mark the next chapter in this unfolding legal and political drama.
Donald Sutherland, the revered Hollywood actor, has died at 88 in Miami.
According to Daily Mail, Kiefer Sutherland announced the passing of his father, Donald Sutherland, on Thursday. The senior Sutherland's career spanned several decades and included diverse roles in iconic films such as "Don't Look Now" and "The Hunger Games."
Kiefer, a prominent actor, shared a heartfelt message describing his father as "one of the most important actors in the history of film." He reminisced about a life well-lived, emphasizing how his father "loved what he did and did what he loved."
Throughout his illustrious career, Donald Sutherland garnered various accolades. He won a supporting actor Emmy for his role in "Citizen X" in 1995 and received nine Golden Globe nominations, winning two for "M*A*S*H" and "Ordinary People."
In addition to his achievements, Sutherland's most recent screen appearance was as Judge Parker in "Lawmen: Bass Reeves." Moreover, he was scheduled to star in the forthcoming film "Heart Land," highlighting his unwavering dedication to the craft till the end.
Donald Tusk, the President of Poland, simply yet poignantly described Sutherland as "the best of all Donalds." This sentiment was echoed by Director Ron Howard, who praised Sutherland’s incredible range, creative courage, and dedication to serving the story and audience with supreme excellence.
British filmmaker Edgar Wright reflected on Sutherland's presence on-screen, noting his fascinating blend of being funny, laconic, intense, and dramatic. Wright expressed sorrow over Donald's passing but celebrated the impactful legacy he left behind.
Writer Jonathan Goldstein, known for "Horrible Bosses," shared his admiration, being both surprised and delighted by Sutherland’s warm, mensch-like demeanor. James Dreyfus, known from "House of the Dragon," called Donald a staple in his life, through incredible and versatile performances.
Kiefer Sutherland, while offering his gut-wrenching announcement, shared a touching photo with his father from his childhood, underscoring their strong bond. This image and message resonated deeply with fans and colleagues alike.
Kiefer’s tribute encapsulated the professional and personal fulfillment his father experienced. He noted how his father was "never daunted by a role," showcasing Donald Sutherland's willingness to embrace diverse characters, from heroes to villains, with equal verve.
The broader film community also remembered Donald's commitment to his art. His dedication to providing compelling performances across various genres made him an unforgettable figure in the annals of cinema.
The passing of Donald Sutherland marks the end of an era for Hollywood. His remarkable ability to connect with audiences through a range of performances will remain etched in the hearts of those who admired him. Sutherland, who passed away at 88, was a towering figure in the film industry with many memorable roles in noteworthy films. His extensive career spanned several decades and included award-winning performances.
Donald Sutherland’s legacy will be carried forward by his son Kiefer Sutherland and the many notable figures who cherished and admired him. His last role in "Lawmen: Bass Reeves" stands as a testament to his enduring love for acting. Sutherland's myriad contributions to film, heartfelt dedication to his craft, and deep respect from family and colleagues signify a life well-lived.
The ongoing RICO trial against alleged YSL gang members has taken a controversial turn as the presiding judge, Ural Glanville, faces a recusal motion due to a private meeting with the prosecution, a state witness, and the witness's counsel.
According to Newsweek, Judge Ural Glanville is spearheading the high-profile case involving several alleged YSL gang members, including Grammy-winning rapper Young Thug. The case has attracted considerable attention not only because of its high-profile defendant but also due to the alleged procedural missteps.
In a dramatic turn of events, Judge Glanville held a private meeting with District Attorney Fani Willis' office, a state witness, and the witness's counsel. This action prompted defense attorneys, particularly Brian Steel, who represents Young Thug, to file a motion seeking Glanville's recusal.
Steel accused Glanville of improperly aligning with the prosecution and influencing a state witness to testify. Michael McAuliffe, a former federal prosecutor, described the motion as "aggressive and controversial." He suggested the defense might be aiming to force a mistrial by injecting controversy into the lengthy proceedings.
The RICO indictment lists Young Thug among 27 defendants, though only six are currently on trial. The trial has been ongoing for nearly seven months, with expectations it will continue into 2025. Legal complexities have made the case challenging, with Anthony Michael Kreis, an assistant professor, noting that there are more lawyers than defendants.
Steel's motion asserts that Young Thug has been deprived of his constitutional right to ethical prosecutors due to the district attorney's alleged misconduct. The defense claims the DA's office worked in concert with Judge Glanville to gain an unlawful advantage through witness intimidation and coercion.
Judge Glanville's courtroom has seen a fair share of drama in recent weeks. The legal proceedings have been marred by various controversies, including an incident where a defendant was stabbed in jail and another where drugs were distributed within the courtroom.
Judge Glanville sentenced defense attorney Brian Steel to jail for refusing to reveal his sources, an incident that Neama Rahmani believes was more embarrassing for the judge than the DA's office. However, Willis' office continues to face criticism for a series of perceived missteps.
Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis has faced mounting criticism. In addition to the current case's controversies, Willis faced backlash for hiring her boyfriend, Nathan Wade, as special counsel in another case, which led to his disqualification. Rahmani commented that Willis' office seems out of control and has botched both cases due to these errors.
Kreis added that an ex parte meeting should never have been sought by the prosecutors. Additionally, there is a widespread perception that Fulton County's legal proceedings are unraveling into chaos, partly due to the ongoing controversies.
Legal experts have offered varying perspectives on the challenges facing the current trial. Michael McAuliffe believes the defense's strategy is to induce chaos and force a mistrial. Anthony Michael Kreis observed that the case, inherently complex, has become more problematic by focusing on personalities rather than the evidence.
"This case was always going to be a beast to try," Kreis remarked, highlighting the difficulties posed by the legal complexities and the involvement of numerous lawyers and defendants.
The RICO case against alleged YSL gang members, including Young Thug, has faced significant turmoil, particularly due to Judge Glanville's controversial private meeting with prosecutors. Defense attorney Brian Steel’s motion for recusal highlights claims of judicial bias, prosecutorial misconduct, and overall trial disorder. The trial, already fraught with multiple controversies, continues to challenge the legal system's capacity to administer justice fairly. As the proceedings unfold, the case remains a focal point for discussions on judicial ethics and prosecutorial conduct in high-stakes trials.
The number of migrants awaiting deportation hearings in the United States has surged dramatically under President Joe Biden's administration, according to recent reports.
The current number of migrants on Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) non-detained docket is set to surpass eight million by the end of 2024, more than doubling the figures from President Donald Trump's era.
According to Breitbart News, approximately 7.4 million migrants are currently residing in the U.S. while awaiting deportation hearings. This figure, reported by Fox News correspondent Bill Melugin, represents a significant increase from the numbers seen during the previous administration.
Under President Biden, the ICE non-detained docket has expanded considerably. The number of migrants in this category has more than doubled compared to the Trump administration's peak, which saw about 2.6 million migrants in his presidency's first full fiscal year. By the end of Trump's term, the docket had increased by approximately 600,000 cases.
President Biden’s administration has seen an increase of 4.2 million cases. By the end of 2024, ICE agents predict that the docket will include over eight million migrants. This growth is significantly outpacing the number of births in the U.S. over a comparable period.
RJ Hauman, President of the National Immigration Center for Enforcement (NICE), expressed concerns about the current administration's handling of the situation. He stated, "Since day one, President Biden has failed to detain illegal aliens by the law, instead acting upon the wishes of 'Abolish ICE' groups."
Despite the rising numbers, many ICE detention beds remain unused. Hauman noted that the use of GPS monitoring for these migrants has also decreased, which he claims has contributed to the growing non-detained docket. He criticized the administration's approach, suggesting that it aims to dismantle the detention system entirely.
Hauman further commented, "Thousands of ICE detention beds remain unfilled, and the use of GPS monitoring has decreased significantly while the non-detained docket approaches eight million." This, he argues, allows migrants to "roam free and await an amnesty."
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is reportedly adding about 172,000 migrants to ICE’s non-detained docket each month. This influx suggests that the docket could reach approximately 8.6 million migrants by December 2024.
The rapid increase in the non-detained docket raises questions about the effectiveness and future direction of U.S. immigration policy. The current administration's approach contrasts sharply with that of the previous administration, which prioritized stricter enforcement and higher detention rates.
Supporters of President Biden’s policies argue that they are more humane and provide better opportunities for migrants to integrate into American society. However, critics like Hauman believe these policies undermine immigration law enforcement and contribute to a growing backlog in the immigration court system.
Melugin’s report highlights the scale of the issue, stating, "Per multiple federal sources, ICE’s non-detained docket has exploded to 7.4 million cases, more than doubling the Trump years, and it’s on pace to hit 8 million by [the] end of year."
In summary, the Biden administration has seen a substantial increase in the number of migrants on ICE's non-detained docket, with projections indicating that this number will continue to grow. The administration's policies, focusing less on detention and more on monitoring, have sparked significant debate and concern among various stakeholders.
Hunter Biden, the President’s son, briefly sought a new trial on a gun charge before retracting the motion on Monday.
Hunter Biden's legal team, citing jurisdiction issues, filed for a new trial quickly but withdrew the motion regarding his conviction on federal gun charges, Fox News reported.
Almost a week earlier, Hunter Biden was convicted on multiple counts related to a firearm purchase in 2018. His legal team, led by attorney Abbe Lowell, initially argued that the court lacked jurisdiction over the matter because two appeals were still pending.
Lowell pointed out that the Third Circuit appeals court had not yet issued its mandate dismissing either of the pending appeals.
In the filing, Lowell stated, "The Third Circuit [appeals court], however, did not then and has not yet issued its mandate as to the orders dismissing either appeal." Biden’s defense team subsequently withdrew the motion. This retraction was noted in a court document as a “correcting entry.”
Hunter Biden was found guilty of making a false statement in purchasing a firearm, making a false statement on federal firearm forms, and possessing a firearm while being an unlawful user of controlled substances. The gun purchase, carried out in October 2018, was made at a store in Wilmington.
Despite his not-guilty plea, a jury handed down the guilty verdict after deliberating for roughly three hours over two days. The decision followed weeks of intense scrutiny over Biden’s well-documented history of drug abuse, which he also detailed in his 2021 memoir.
Biden’s defense acknowledged his struggles with substance abuse but maintained he was not actively using drugs on the day he purchased the firearm, citing a recent rehabilitation stint. Prosecutors countered this claim, presenting evidence they believed to indicate his ongoing addiction to crack cocaine at the time of the purchase.
Among the evidence were text messages from Hunter Biden, including one where he mentioned "waiting for a dealer named Mookie" and another discussing "sleeping on a car smoking crack on 4th Street and Rodney." These messages were pivotal in the prosecution’s case, undermining the defense's argument.
Hunter Biden now faces substantial potential penalties, including up to 25 years in prison, heavy fines of up to $250,000 per count, and three years of supervised release per charge. However, as a first-time offender, it is unlikely Biden will receive the maximum penalties.
The sentence has not been scheduled as of now. The motion was withdrawn amid ongoing public interest and media attention on the case. Fox News Digital reached out to Abbe Lowell's office for a comment but has yet to receive a response.
In summary, Hunter Biden was convicted of several charges stemming from a firearm purchase in 2018. His legal team filed for a new trial, citing jurisdictional issues, only to withdraw the motion shortly after.
The defense argued that Biden was not actively using drugs at the time of purchase, while prosecutors presented contradicting evidence from text messages. Biden awaits sentencing, facing significant but potentially reduced penalties as a first-time offender.
House Intelligence Chairman Mike Turner defended the appointment of two controversial Republican allies to the committee.
Responding to concerns, Turner emphasized their military background and familiarity with classified data, the Washington Examiner reported.
Appearing on CBS News’s Face the Nation, Rep. Mike Turner, R-Ohio, addressed criticisms surrounding the appointments of Reps. Ronny Jackson, R-Texas, and Scott Perry, R-Penn., to the House Intelligence Committee. Both representatives are known for strongly supporting former President Donald Trump, leading to concerns about their credibility and behavior.
Turner defended the selection based on Jackson's and Perry's military service and prior experience handling sensitive information. He stated, "Both of them have military experience, both of them have had access to classified information before, and there have been no reports of any incidences of their mishandling of classified information."
Perry’s appointment, in particular, has met opposition from Democrats who worry about his commitment to the committee's serious responsibilities.
Turner explained that House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., will monitor the situation and take action if necessary. Turner remarked that Speaker Johnson is "going to continue to monitor the situation" and would step in "if there’s any indication of anything improper happening."
Rep. Jason Crow, D-Colo., expressed his concerns about maintaining the committee's integrity and seriousness. He emphasized the importance of careful oversight, which seems to resonate across party lines. Turner assured that Perry and Jackson would be under scrutiny and Speaker Johnson’s intervention would be prompt if needed.
These assurances follow Perry's pledge to focus on thorough oversight rather than unquestioningly following the intelligence community. Perry has communicated his intent to engage in what he describes as "actual oversight—not blind obedience to some facets of our Intelligence Community."
Meanwhile, Jackson's past actions are also under the microscope. Allegations against Jackson include inappropriate behavior during his tenure as the top White House physician. Although concerning, these allegations have not been linked to mishandling classified information, which Turner highlighted as crucial in justifying his appointment to the committee.
Moreover, Jackson’s history draws particular scrutiny. Reports of providing medical treatment while on sedatives when serving as the lead physician at the White House cast a shadow over his suitability for handling national secrets. Yet, the emphasis remains on his non-incident record with classified data.
In concluding the interview, Turner reiterated that the oversight mechanisms in place reflect a commitment to appropriate scrutiny and intervention. Speaker Johnson's office's assurance aims to bolster public confidence. However, eyes remain fixed on the performance and conduct of both appointees.
The controversies surrounding Jackson and Perry have brought to the forefront the delicate balance of trust and accountability within sensitive government roles. Turner’s defense, reflecting his confidence in their qualifications, aims to counter the criticisms head-on while ensuring every necessary precaution is observed.
In the end, their appointments highlight the ongoing dynamics within the House Intelligence Committee and the broader implications these choices hold for its operations moving forward. As Turner and Speaker Johnson continue to monitor, the focus remains on maintaining the committee's integrity and trustworthiness.
Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) has described Vice President Kamala Harris as a crucial protector of the 2024 election if President Joe Biden wins this fall and Republicans challenge the outcome.
Pelosi stressed Harris' role amid discussions on election integrity and Trump's visit to the Capitol, as The Hill reports.
In a speech, Pelosi underscored that Harris would act as a guardrail during the certification process of the 2024 election results. She emphasized this in the context of her confidence that Republicans would not replicate their 2020 election objections if President Biden wins, making these assertions on the same day former President Donald Trump returned to the Capitol for the first time since Jan 6, 2021.
The former speaker expressed skepticism about Republicans planning to challenge the 2024 election results. "I don’t think that the Republicans, if we win, are necessarily going to engage in what they did last time," Pelosi told reporters. Nevertheless, she insisted on the importance of the vice president's role in ensuring a fair outcome.
Trump has previously expressed doubts about the validity of the upcoming election. In May, he stated to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that he would accept the results "if everything's honest." However, he reiterated his unfounded claim that he won the 2020 election in Wisconsin, despite the defeat acknowledged by the courts and bipartisan officials.
The skepticism from Trump's potential vice-presidential candidates accentuates this atmosphere of mistrust. Figures such as Sen. Tim Scott have avoided making a commitment to accepting the 2024 election outcome fully. This non-committal stance reflects enduring concerns within the GOP about electoral integrity.
In response to Trump’s Capitol visit, Pelosi denounced Jan. 6 as a "crime against the Capitol and the Constitution." She lamented the sight of Nazi and Confederate flags under the dome constructed by Abraham Lincoln.
During the visit, Trump reportedly made disparaging remarks about Pelosi's daughter, spurring a sharp response from the Pelosi camp. Trump claimed that the congresswoman's daughter had made comments suggesting a hypothetical romantic connection between Trump and Pelosi, which drew immediate denials and rebukes.
A spokesperson for Pelosi reacted vehemently, asserting that Trump "has clearly lost his marbles." This response reflects the heightened tension and vitriol often characterizing exchanges between Trump and Pelosi.
Christine Pelosi, daughter of Nancy Pelosi, firmly denied Trump’s allegations, declaring them to be entirely false. She described Trump as "unwell, unhinged, and unfit" to hold any position of power or even be in proximity to the White House.
The lawmaker's daughter also emphasized unity among the Pelosi daughters in rejecting Trump's claims wholly. She refuted Trump’s narrative publicly, adding another layer to the contentious discourse surrounding Trump’s remarks and actions.
As the prospect of the 2024 election looms closer, figures like Nancy Pelosi and Donald Trump remain pivotal to the unfolding political drama. Questions about election legitimacy and preparedness reflect broader concerns across the American political landscape.
The intersection of past controversies, such as Jan. 6, and upcoming political battles shapes a narrative marked by deep divisions and rigorous discourse. The manner in which both parties navigate these issues will significantly influence public trust and the integrity of American democracy.
In a troubling incident, Timothy Muller, a 43-year-old resident of Fort Worth, Texas, was detained on Thursday for allegedly making threats against an FBI agent.
Muller faces up to 10 years in prison after he threatened an FBI agent involved in the Hunter Biden investigation, as the Washington Times reports.
The sequence of events began when Muller allegedly left a menacing voice message on the federal agent's government-issued phone. The threats stem from Hunter Biden's recent conviction on three felony gun charges.
According to court documents, Muller accused the FBI agent, who operates out of Baltimore, of concealing child pornography purportedly found on Hunter Biden's laptop. Muller’s allegations are unsubstantiated, as no evidence of child pornography on the laptop exists and Hunter Biden has not faced charges relating to such content.
In the threatening voicemail, Muller stated, “You can run, but you can’t f——— hide.” He further suggested that should former President Donald Trump win the upcoming 2024 election, the agent would end up incarcerated. The threats became more severe with Muller claiming, “The last thing you’ll ever hear are the horrified shrieks of your widows and orphans.”
The threats were made shortly after Hunter Biden's conviction for falsifying details about his substance use on a federal form to purchase a firearm back in 2018. The jury in Delaware handed down the guilty verdict this week.
Muller, who exhibited staunch political opinions, implied dire consequences if the threat towards the FBI agent went unheeded. He additionally suggested that should Trump lose the 2024 election, retaliation against the federal officers would follow.
Muller is being charged with making threats against a federal official and attempting to influence or seek retribution against that official. The severity of these charges could lead to a decade-long prison sentence.
Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden, found himself at the center of legal scrutiny over weapon purchase falsifications. The conviction has stirred political discourse and led to unwarranted accusations such as those made by Muller.
The HuffPost reports that Muller's threatening language implied a broader dissatisfaction with federal authorities among a segment of the population. He mentioned potential violent reprisals should the outcome of the upcoming election not favor his preferred candidate.
Federal authorities are taking these threats seriously, demonstrating an increased urgency in pursuing charges against individuals who attempt to intimidate law enforcement personnel.
Up next for Muller is a bail hearing scheduled for the coming Tuesday. This will determine whether he remains incarcerated or if bail will be set pending his trial. This case highlights the risks faced by federal agents, particularly those involved in high-profile investigations.
In sum, Timothy Muller was detained following threats against an FBI agent connected to the Hunter Biden investigation. He faces grave charges including the threat against a federal official, with a potential decade-long prison term.
The U.S. Supreme Court has settled a significant case involving the abortion medication mifepristone in a ruling that preserves access to the drug.
The Supreme Court ruled that challengers to the FDA's regulatory approval process of the abortion drug mifepristone lacked standing to sue, thereby maintaining access to the drug.
As reported by Fox News, the Supreme Court delivered a unanimous decision on Thursday, rejecting the argument that the FDA's approval process for mifepristone should be challenged. This decision is a continuation of the high court's indirect involvement with abortion rights following the reversal of Roe v. Wade in 2022.
Justice Brett Kavanaugh, authoring the unanimous opinion, clarified the Court's rationale. He emphasized that the challengers failed to show a direct injury due to the FDA's relaxed regulations. According to Kavanaugh, "a plaintiff's desire to make a drug less available for others does not establish standing to sue."
This case has been remanded to the Fifth Circuit Court. The original challenge originated from several healthcare associations, including the Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, arguing that mifepristone had a high rate of complications.
The ruling has broader implications for the FDA's drug approval process. The Supreme Court's decision prevents the introduction of new restrictions on mifepristone. This maintains the regulatory adjustments the FDA has made since 2016, which include reducing the recommended dosage, extending its use up to ten weeks of pregnancy, approving a generic version, and authorizing mailing the drug.
The Biden administration and Danco, the drug's manufacturer, had pushed to reverse an appellate ruling that aimed to restrict access to mifepristone. Nearly two-thirds of abortions in the U.S. in 2023 involved mifepristone, underscoring its significance since its approval 24 years ago, affecting roughly six million women.
Erin Hawley, counsel for the Alliance Defending Freedom, expressed her disappointment, stating, "We are disappointed that the Supreme Court did not reach the merits of the FDA's lawless removal of common sense safety standards." She criticized the FDA for leaving women to take these drugs without the ongoing care of a doctor.
On the other hand, Abigail Long, spokesperson for Danco, praised the ruling, noting, "We are pleased with the Supreme Court’s decision in this incredibly important case." Long highlighted that the decision reaffirms the basic principles of administrative law, ensuring stability in the FDA drug approval process.
Attorney General Merrick Garland welcomed the decision. He reiterated the right of women in states restricting comprehensive reproductive care to travel to states where such care is legal. Garland also defended the ability to inform and counsel regarding reproductive care across state lines and stressed the safety and efficacy of mifepristone.
Justice Clarence Thomas, though, raised concerns about "associational standing," pointing out that the Alliance's effort to apply this doctrine showed a deviation from traditional rules, advocating that plaintiffs must assert only their injuries.
Critics of the FDA, including Hawley, argue that safety standards have been compromised. They cite the need for initial office visits to screen for conditions like ectopic pregnancies. Hawley mentioned that states would hold the FDA accountable for any health risks posed to women by these drugs.
The Supreme Court's decision underscores a significant victory for the Biden administration and supporters of abortion rights. However, it also highlights ongoing debates about the regulatory framework for abortion drugs and the balance between ensuring safety and maintaining access. The case's return to the Fifth Circuit may continue to influence future regulatory and legal landscapes surrounding reproductive rights, marking a critical moment in an already contentious issue in American public policy.
Former President Donald Trump has surpassed fundraising expectations in California, raking in a significant amount during his western U.S. campaign sweep.
Donald Trump raised $33.5 million during his campaign efforts in California and Nevada, indicating increased support in traditionally Democratic areas.
According to The Epoch Times, the tour commenced with a noteworthy $12 million haul in San Francisco, followed by an additional $21.5 million accrued from three regional events. A senior Trump campaign official revealed the figures to The Epoch Times on June 10.
Though Trump's increasing support in California is evident, pollster Rich Baris remains skeptical about his chances: “It will be closer, but he sure ain’t carrying it.” Baris also noted the shifting Hispanic vote, foreseeing future challenges for Democrats.
The $33.5 million sum is crucial as the campaign enters its next phase, ahead of President Joe Biden’s celebrity fundraiser in Los Angeles on June 15. Trump’s recent conviction in New York boosted donations, adding $52.8 million within the first 24 hours post-verdict.
On June 6 and June 9, Trump delivered key speeches in Phoenix and Las Vegas, which attracted thousands of attendees. Despite high temperatures, supporters attended four private fundraisers and several public events.
Over 100 tech industry attendees attended the June 6 San Francisco fundraiser. Harmeet Dhillon, a Republican National Committee member, remarked there was “not an empty seat in the gorgeous home” and described Trump as being “relaxed, happy, and cracking jokes.”
During the San Francisco event, supporter Argun Sodhani handed out flyers promoting Trump’s “Agenda 47.” Sodhani expressed his gratitude, stating, “Thank you for having the courage and the bravery to stand up and doing what you’re doing.”
Supporters gathered hours early and voiced strong support for Trump. Illustrator Dorothy Dent highlighted the freedoms and lower costs during Trump’s presidency, saying, “We had peace [...] lower gas prices [and] lower grocery prices.”
David Sacks, who organized the San Francisco event, shared his rationale for supporting Trump, sparking further attention. Event contributions varied from $50,000 to $250,000 per person in Beverly Hills and Newport Beach.
On June 8, Trump attended a boat parade in Newport Beach, before heading to Las Vegas for a rally at the Ahern Luxury Boutique Hotel. Medics treated heat-related illnesses during the Las Vegas rally.
Despite past losses in California, there's a perception of growing support since Trump's appearance at the September 2023 California GOP convention. Trump’s fundraising accomplishments mark a significant milestone, cementing his campaign's perseverance.
Former President Donald Trump initiated his western U.S. campaign tour by raising a total of $33.5 million in California and Nevada, demonstrating significant fundraising success even in areas typically dominated by Democrats. This includes a notable $12 million raised at an event in San Francisco. Despite skepticism from analysts about his chances in California, the increase in donations following his recent conviction in New York highlights growing financial support. His campaign also garnered additional backing from private events and individuals in the tech sector, showcasing its robustness as the election approaches.