Trump Faces Challenges with Small-Donor Contributions

Donald Trump's campaign is experiencing a significant decline in contributions from small-dollar donors, which now constitute less than a third of his total fundraising—down from nearly half in 2020. Through June 2024, Trump raised $98 million from small donors, a 40% decrease compared to the $165 million raised during the same period in his last campaign. This downturn has forced Trump to increasingly rely on wealthy donors, undermining his populist appeal. In contrast, Democrats, led by President Biden and Vice President Harris, have raised an impressive $285 million from small donors since April 2023. GOP operatives express concern that the over-solicitation of donations, inundating supporters with constant appeals, is driving grassroots supporters away, particularly as many are on fixed incomes. The shift in fundraising dynamics raises questions about the Republican Party's long-term financial sustainability as its donor base ages.