$ 1.5 M-per-plate dinner hosted by MAGA Inc drew top tech names.
Trump Gala Access Tied to Top $TRUMP Coin Holders
Ethics concerns grow as crypto wallets mask donor identities.
U.S. President Donald Trump is tapping into the power of meme coins and blockchain innovation to fundraise like never before. Through two high-profile events in May 2025, Trump is combining traditional political networking with cutting-edge crypto mechanics, generating millions while courting Web3 communities.
On May 5, the Trump-aligned MAGA Inc. super PAC hosted a “Crypto & AI Innovators Dinner” with an eye-watering $1.5 million-per-plate entry. Held to rally political and tech influencers, the event drew major names such as investor David Sacks, known for shaping crypto and AI policy in Washington. It’s one of the costliest political dinners ever, reflecting Trump’s bold strategy to lead in the emerging crypto space.
Though Trump is constitutionally barred from running for a third term, MAGA Inc. is amassing funds at a record pace. How this money will be used remains uncertain, but it’s aimed at boosting Trump’s crypto influence.
Tokens Over Dollars: A Meme Coin Gala
On May 22, Trump National in Washington, DC, will host a black-tie-optional dinner where access isn’t purchased with cash but with $TRUMP meme coin holdings. The top 220 $TRUMP holders will win seats at the event, while the top 25 receive VIP perks, including a White House tour and reception.
This access-for-tokens model, promoted via a public leaderboard, bypasses traditional donor scrutiny. The contest ends May 12, though event attendance isn’t guaranteed; winners may instead receive a Trump NFT if plans change.
Controversy and Ethics Questions
While the $TRUMP token dipped post-announcement, watchdog groups like Accountable.US have criticized the fundraising as “nakedly corrupt.” With around 80% of the token supply controlled by Trump-affiliated wallets and trading fees surpassing $324 million, concerns around transparency and foreign influence are mounting.
The anonymous character of crypto wallets means that it is hard to follow large holders unless they come forward voluntarily, a disturbing prospect for ethics monitors.
Despite the criticism, Trump’s crypto involvement is revolutionizing political fundraising, blending blockchain mania with traditional clout.
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