Trump's Meme Coin Generates $320 Million Ahead of Dinner with Top Holders

Donald Trump and his family have transformed the $TRUMP meme coin into a lucrative political and fundraising tool, generating over $320 million in fees since its launch earlier this year, according to blockchain analytics firms. Holders of the coin are incentivized with exclusive access to Trump, such as a dinner at his Washington-area golf club for the top 220 holders and a pre-dinner reception for the top 25, with additional perks like Trump-branded watches and a meme contest offering further access. The coin’s trading activity is structured through decentralized exchanges, where transaction fees accumulate rapidly due to high trade volumes, benefiting Trump-affiliated entities. Critics have raised concerns about transparency and potential for foreign influence, as the anonymous nature of crypto wallets makes it difficult to track large holders. Watchdog groups have described the fundraising model as concerning, while Trump and his affiliates have dismissed worries about personal financial gain. Despite controversy, the strategy highlights how Trump is leveraging both brand and blockchain innovation to reshape political fundraising.