Scoop: Trump to keep fundraising, hoping to retain political muscle
President Trump has told advisers that he plans to keep raising money for his political operation — a move aimed at salvaging his clout after the GOP's midterm debacle. Why it matters: Maintaining a political organization — either his existing MAGA Inc. super PAC or one to be created — would give Trump a vehicle to try to influence elections in 2028 and beyond, including the next presidential…
President Trump has informed his advisers that he intends to continue raising funds for his political enterprise, aiming to retain influence despite the Republican Party's poor showing in the midterm elections. This strategy aims to bolster Trump's political muscle for future elections, including the 2028 presidential race. Establishing a political entity, whether MAGA Inc. or a new one, would provide Trump with a tool to sway future elections and exert pressure on GOP lawmakers who may oppose him as his unpopular tenure nears its end.
MAGA Inc., Trump's political operation, has been instrumental in maintaining party discipline during the 2026 primary campaigns, contributing to the defeat of Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie, a vocal critic of the president. The group has raised nearly $450 million since early 2025, primarily from cryptocurrency and AI sector donors, along with prominent Republican figures like Elon Musk and Miriam Adelson.
Trump has hosted upscale fundraising events at his Mar-a-Lago estate and golf club in Virginia, attracting high-rolling business leaders hoping to curry favor with the president.
According to a source familiar with the figures, MAGA Inc. spent over $400 million on the midterms, making it one of the election's largest spenders. However, the investment didn't prevent Republicans from losing control of Congress, as voters expressed frustration over Trump's actions, including his conflict with Iran, soaring prices, and corruption allegations.
As of October 14, MAGA Inc. had $164 million on hand, but it's unclear how much remains after spending tens of millions on TV and digital ads during the final stretch of the campaign.
While raising funds could prove challenging with Democrats controlling Congress and major donors possibly shifting their focus to 2028, Republicans argue that Trump's reduced political clout will make it harder to attract the large contributions that have flooded MAGA Inc. Additionally, congressional probes into potential pay-for-play schemes involving donors to Trump's political operation might deter contributions.
Tech executives who heavily supported the group might increasingly align with Democrats, and major Republican donors might redirect their attention to potential 2028 presidential candidates.
Written by urgent.news from Axios's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
