The evidence is circumstantial, but the list is long. Supporters who have business with the federal government clearly see utility in contributing large amounts to President Donald Trump’s super PAC, MAGA Inc.
At least four of the five $1 million-plus donors to MAGA Inc. also have federal contracts or policy they’re trying to influence with the Trump administration, according to the most recent legally required monthly donor disclosure filing with the Federal Election Commission. But there are numerous other donors to MAGA Inc., which has raised more than $340 million, seeking to influence the administration during Trump’s second term.
In contrast with some of his other pet projects that don’t require financial disclosures — like the East Wing teardown and White House ballroom plans, his inauguration, and his library — federal law means there is some amount of transparency about who is giving to MAGA Inc. The increasing donations of tech billionaires who want to influence crypto or AI regulation, or the lack thereof, are well-documented. But there are many interests giving to MAGA Inc.
Trump is constitutionally barred from being on the presidential ballot again, but the more than $300 million he has raised for his super PAC during his second term guarantees he could be a financial force in elections for years to come.
Federal law prohibits federal contractors from making political donations, but individuals and companies without contracts have no such prohibition. Watchdog groups have alleged that some companies are exploiting loopholes. And there’s no direct evidence to tie a political donation to a specific action by the White House.
Asked whether donors get special consideration from the president, a White House spokesperson, Anna Kelly, said in an email:
“The only factor guiding President Trump’s decision making is what is best for the American people. Any insinuation otherwise is lazy, tired, and false.”
