Democratic leaders are turning their attention to Nantucket this summer, hoping to tap into the affluent donor base that frequents the Massachusetts island. With midterm elections on the horizon, both candidates and party figures are gathering campaign funds.
For years, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard have been hot spots for political fundraising. Democrats are revisiting these wealthy networks to bolster their financial resources before the upcoming elections. Recent filings reveal that the Democratic National Committee, Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, and Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee together hold around $136 million, whereas their Republican counterparts have amassed approximately $277 million.
This summer has seen public figures like House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Texas Senate hopeful James Talarico, and Representative Seth Moulton on Nantucket for fundraising endeavors.
Senator Jon Ossoff participated in an August 29 fundraiser on Nantucket, hosted by influential Democrat Elizabeth Frawley Bagley, ambassador to Brazil.
In addition to Nantucket, Democratic campaigns extend their outreach to Martha’s Vineyard. Former President Barack Obama attended an event there on August 31, hosted by Eric Holder, aiming to benefit the National Democratic Redistricting Committee.
Maryland’s Republican Party criticized Wes Moore, a potential presidential contender, for attending a Democratic National Committee fundraiser in Martha’s Vineyard on August 8, suggesting his priorities lie beyond local politics.
Iowa state Rep. Josh Turek, a candidate for the open Senate seat, was seen fundraising in Nantucket amidst the Iowa State Fair.
On August 2, donors Frank Herron and Sandra Urie hosted Representative Seth Moulton at their Nantucket home for a fundraiser, previously having welcomed First Lady Jill Biden for a 2022 Democratic event.
Michelle Obama also visited the island to promote her book, engaging audiences in sold-out events at the Performing Arts Center.
Nantucket’s appeal to Democrats spans decades. The Bidens frequently visit to celebrate Thanksgiving, and Jill Biden was recently seen promoting her memoir ‘View From the East Wing’.
Republican candidates haven’t neglected Nantucket’s donor circle either. In 2022, Vice President JD Vance appeared on the island alongside figures like Rick Scott, Ted Budd, Dr. Mehmet Oz, and Herschel Walker for fundraising events.
The National Democratic Redistricting Committee targets battleground states such as Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Wisconsin.
Reporter Ashley J. DiMella covers political affairs for Fox News Digital.
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