A GoFundMe campaign aimed at covering former President Donald Trump’s civil fraud fine has crossed $1 million just six days after its launch.
The fundraiser, initiated by Elena Cardone following a court ruling that Trump owes approximately $355 million for fraud, has sparked both support and controversy.
Origins of the GoFundMe Campaign
Elena Cardone, wife of real estate businessman Grant Cardone, created the GoFundMe page titled “Stand with Trump; Fund the $355M Unjust Judgment” in response to Judge Arthur Engoron’s ruling on Trump’s fraud case.
The fundraiser gained traction quickly, garnering significant attention and donations within a short period.
Current Donation Status
As of Thursday night, the GoFundMe has amassed a total of $1,054,813 in contributions.
The substantial support reflects a segment of the population rallying behind Trump amidst legal challenges and financial penalties.
Legal Background
The New York court’s ruling stemmed from allegations of fraud against Trump and top executives at The Trump Organization.
Asset Inflation Charges
They were accused of inflating asset values to secure favorable terms from lenders and insurers, resulting in a substantial penalty totaling over $450 million, including pre-judgment interest.
Analysis of Fundraising Efforts
Despite the significant funds raised, some experts view the GoFundMe campaign as more symbolic than substantive.
Scott Lucas, a professor in international politics, suggests that while donations demonstrate support for Trump, they represent only a fraction of the total penalty he faces, including other legal battles such as the E. Jean Carroll defamation case.
Political Implications
Lucas adds, “What the significance of the GoFundMe is more that the Trump camp whipping this up as ‘oh look, look, look, look at all these people that support our president in terms of this unjust persecution by the justice system and the deep state’ and that’s how it will be spun.”
Political Manipulation
Lucas also said, “Certainly people who donate to the fund probably very much believe in the cause that they’re supporting and that’s fair enough, but this is more a political manipulation during an election year rather than anything which is fundamentally related to the question of whether Trump will be able to or when he will actually pay this record penalty.”
Legal Ramifications of Ruling
In addition to financial penalties, Engoron’s ruling imposes restrictions on Trump and several associates, barring them from serving as officers or directors of New York corporations for specified periods.
This decision underscores the severity of the consequences faced by Trump and his inner circle.
Impact on Trump Organization
Despite fundraising efforts, Lucas emphasizes that GoFundMe cannot alleviate the broader implications of the court ruling, particularly concerning the Trump Organization’s ability to conduct business in New York.
The organization faces significant challenges, compounded by legal sanctions and public scrutiny.
Questions Surrounding GoFundMe Legitimacy
The legitimacy of the GoFundMe campaign has been called into question following reports linking the platform’s director of public affairs, Jalen Drummond, to Trump’s former press team.
Concerns have been raised about potential conflicts of interest and biases influencing the fundraiser’s administration.
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